Manaka Iwami: "Watch it with an Espresso in Hand!" — Hyping up the "Extra Sweet" Developments in The Angel Next Door [S2 Special Report]

On Friday, April 3, at 9:30 PM, the exclusive special program "The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten 2: Pre-Broadcast Special" was aired for free on ABEMA.

The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten is a "healing" youth romantic comedy that follows the blossoming relationship between Amane Fujimiya, a high school student living alone, and his neighbor Mahiru Shiina, the most beautiful girl in school, known as "The Angel." The special featured cast members Taito Ban (Amane Fujimiya), Manaka Iwami (Mahiru Shiina), Taku Yashiro (Itsuki Akasawa), and Haruka Shiraishi (Chitose Shirakawa), who shared recaps of Season 1, behind-the-scenes recording stories, and highlights for Season 2.

■ "Slow-Burn Sweetness" in Full Force! Reflecting on Season 1

The program began by revisiting the evolving relationship between Amane and Mahiru through iconic scenes from the first season. Regarding their meeting in Episode 1, where Amane lent Mahiru his umbrella on a rainy day, Iwami reflected, "At this point, Mahiru-chan really had her shutters down toward Amane-kun." Ban added sentimentally, "You eventually learn about the circumstances Mahiru was in at that time."

Ban highlighted Episode 7, "The Angel's Secret," as a major turning point where Mahiru's lonely family situation was revealed. Iwami agreed, saying, "Seeing the cherry blossoms after they've accepted each other's pasts is truly emotional." Ban chimed in, "It was the absolute peak of emotions," as they looked back on the episode where the two grew significantly closer.

Moving to the confession in the final episode, Iwami analyzed: "Even though the atmosphere felt like they were already dating, ending with a hug instead of a kiss is so 'them'! It’s tantalizing, but it was a beautiful scene that felt like a beginning true to their characters." She spoke passionately about the conclusion of Season 1, which was packed with their signature "slow-burn sweetness."

Other behind-the-scenes stories included an unexpected ad-lib by Shiraishi in Episode 2, and the first meeting of the four main characters in Episode 3. Ban shared a nostalgic tidbit: "Back then, we were recording in separate booths, so it felt a bit lonely." The recap offered a glimpse into the friendly and harmonious atmosphere of the recording studio.