The legendary sweeper of Shinjuku is officially back on the case! Following the massive success of the first Japanese live-action adaptation in 2024, Netflix has announced that a sequel, titled "City Hunter 2," is in production. The film is slated for an exclusive worldwide release on Netflix in 2027.
To celebrate the announcement, we’ve received special messages from lead actor Ryohei Suzuki, original creator Tsukasa Hojo, director Keiichiro Shiraki, and executive producer Shinichi Takahashi.
Lead Actor Ryohei Suzuki Aims for the "Most Authentic City Hunter Ever"
Netflix, the world’s leading streaming service for top-tier entertainment, has officially greenlit "City Hunter 2" for a global exclusive premiere in 2027.
The "City Hunter" manga—a legendary franchise that will celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2025 and boasts over 50 million copies in circulation—sparked a cultural phenomenon during its original run. The 2024 Netflix film marked the long-awaited first live-action adaptation set in Japan. Taking place in modern-day Shinjuku, it served as an "origin story" following Ryo Saeba (Ryohei Suzuki) and Kaori Makimura (Misato Morita) as they formed their iconic partnership. The film became an instant sensation, debuting at #1 on the "Weekly Global Top 10 (Non-English Films)" (April 22–28) and reaching the Top 10 in 32 countries and regions, including France, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Brazil.
The story’s protagonist, Ryo Saeba, is a premier "Sweeper" (cleaner) based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, who handles the dirty work of the underworld. While he is an incurable skirt-chaser who loses all composure around beautiful women, he is also a professional with peerless marksmanship, elite physical abilities, and a razor-sharp, calm mind. It has been confirmed that Ryohei Suzuki will return to play the "cool yet ridiculous" Ryo Saeba, alongside Misato Morita as Ryo’s partner and heroine Kaori Makimura, and Fumino Kimura as the beautiful detective and Ryo’s long-time contact, Saeko Nogami.
Stepping into the director's chair is Keiichiro Shiraki, renowned for his high-speed pacing and intense action sequences. The screenplay will be handled by Jumpei Yamaoka, who is known for his nuanced character relationships and emotional depth. While maintaining the Succession of the first film's high-octane energy, the sequel aims to delve even deeper into the iconic worldview of the original "City Hunter."
The production was announced on March 26—Ryo Saeba’s birthday. Leading man Ryohei Suzuki expressed his gratitude, stating, "It is only because everyone loved and supported the first film that we are able to bring you this new installment. Thank you so much." He added, "Once again, I feel the weight of the responsibility of being entrusted with Tsukasa Hojo-sensei’s masterpiece and the fans' beloved characters. I am heading into filming with a sense of intense focus and determination." Regarding the theme of the sequel, he teased a major evolution: "The first film was the 'origin story' of Ryo and Kaori. In this sequel, we will deliver what you could call 'The City Hunter'—the most authentic version of the character yet."
The adrenaline-pumping, high-stakes entertainment of "City Hunter 2" arrives globally on Netflix in 2027.
Comments from Lead Actor Ryohei Suzuki and the Production Team
Lead Actor: Ryohei Suzuki
"I am thrilled to announce that 'City Hunter 2' is officially in production. It’s thanks to your love and support for the previous film that we can continue this journey. I truly can’t thank you enough.Once again, I carry the responsibility of handling Hojo-sensei’s legendary work and the fans' precious memories. I’m approaching every day on set with a mix of nerves and absolute commitment.While the first film was about the 'beginning' of Ryo and Kaori, this sequel will be 'The City Hunter' in every sense of the word—delivering the most quintessential experience possible.I want this to be a film that long-time fans will love, and one that introduces newcomers to the full charm of the original manga. Please look forward to it!"
Original Creator: Tsukasa Hojo
"Since some information seemed to have leaked already, you might be thinking, 'We knew that!' (laughs), but I’m truly relieved to finally announce this officially.I recently visited the set, and the sheer passion coming from Ryohei Suzuki and the director was almost overwhelming. More than anything, Ryohei’s physical transformation is incredible—you can really feel his dedication to every project he touches.I believe the crew’s passion will translate into something wonderful. I’m looking forward to the finished film just as much as everyone else."
Director: Keiichiro Shiraki
"I grew up obsessed with the 'City Hunter' manga and anime. Honestly, the pressure of handling such a legendary work outweighs the joy of the job.How do we realize the spirit of the original in the modern era without breaking its core? It’s like trying to thread a needle. I’ve been having daily meetings with Ryohei Suzuki—who is essentially a walking encyclopedia of love for the original work—at local family restaurants (laughs).Our passionate staff is turning our vision into reality piece by piece. Please get excited for 'City Hunter 2'!"
Executive Producer: Shinichi Takahashi
"Finally, 'City Hunter' is coming back! Following the incredible reception of the first film, I am so happy to deliver the first-ever sequel for a Japanese Netflix original film.Filming has already begun. With deep respect for Tsukasa Hojo-sensei’s masterpiece, Ryohei Suzuki, Misato Morita, the rest of the cast, Director Shiraki, and the entire crew are tackling this with even more heat than the first film. I can’t contain my excitement seeing Ryo and Kaori running through the streets of Shinjuku again in their 'cool yet goofy' way.I promise this will be top-tier entertainment for both hardcore fans and those experiencing 'City Hunter' for the first time. It’s going to be the coolest, the silliest, and the most touching 'City Hunter 2' yet. Stay tuned!"
Netflix Film "City Hunter 2"
Original Work: Tsukasa Hojo "City Hunter"
Cast: Ryohei Suzuki, Misato Morita, Fumino Kimura
Director: Keiichiro Shiraki
Executive Producer: Shinichi Takahashi (Netflix)
Producers: Misato Kohno, Miyoshi Kikuchi, Tomoki Doi, Shinya Miyazaki
Screenplay: Jumpei Yamaoka
Production: Netflix
Produced by: Horipro
Production House: Filmmakers
Original Material Cooperation: Coamix
(C)Tsukasa Hojo/Coamix 1985
Netflix Page: https://www.netflix.com/cityhunter2
© Animate Times
*Some parts of this text have been translated using machine translation
