Oshi No Ko Season 2 Episode 7 - Akane Won but at What Cost?

Oshi no Ko Season 2 episode 7 sets the stage for the much-anticipated rivalry between Akane and Kana. Or does it? While I was bracing for an intense showdown that would finally reveal who’s the superior actress, Kana’s quick and unexpected concession left me feeling kind of underwhelmed. It was anticlimactic, to say the least.

While Kana’s decision to step back and let Akane shine does benefit the play, it’s a bit disappointing for those of us who were hoping to see her give it her all. Unlike in Sweet Today, where she was undeniably the best by miles away, she’s now on an even playing field with the rest of the cast. This was supposed to be her moment to show the world that Kana hadn’t lost her touch, but unfortunately, that didn’t happen. However, the episode does show why Kana held back and it all had to do with her past trauma.

Despite her young age, Kana has already grasped the harsh realities of the entertainment industry. She’s acutely aware that popularity is preferred over talent, and it’s a truth that weighs heavily on her. This episode reflects the immense pressure placed on child stars, who must constantly navigate the demands of the industry just to stay relevant. The brutality of the entertainment world spares no one, not even its youngest talents and upcoming rising stars.

Akane also faced a harsh reality in this episode, meeting her idol in such a disheartening way must’ve been incredibly painful. Yet, what stands out is her maturity in handling the situation. At her age, many would have crumbled or even hated Kana or the entertainment industry as a whole, but not Akane. Instead, she sought to understand Kana, going to great lengths to empathize with her, which got me thinking that Akane might be more obsessed with Kana than we realize.

Akane is likely Kana’s biggest fan and harshest critic all rolled into one. It’s ironic since Akane once saw Kana as a selfish actress who craved the spotlight, yet now she’s equally possessive of Kana’s brilliance. Akane doesn’t just want to compete with Kana; she wants to outshine her at her very best. While it seems like Akane may have won this round, it kind of felt underserved since Kana was holding back a lot. However, the performance is still ongoing and it’s up to her and Aqua to help Kana reclaim her former glory and shine like the child star she once was.

So far, the production quality of Oshi no Ko‘s second season has been nothing short of stellar. It amazes me how Doga Kobo has maintained an impressive consistency throughout the entire anime so far. They truly have outdone themselves with this adaptation and this might even be their best work to date. The animation is breathtaking, with each frame so mesmerizing. Not to mention, Akane as Saya-hime is way too beautiful. Ruby has always been my favorite, but with the way the series is showcasing Akane, I can see why someone might be tempted to switch sides (but don’t worry, I’m still a Ruby fan until the very end!).

Watch Oshi no Ko Season 2 episode 7 on Bilibili and HIDIVE.
©Aka Akasaka x Mengo Yokoyari/Shueisha, “OSHI NO KO” Partners