Chibi Maruko-chan

ちびまるこちゃん

Aired: 1990 - 1992

First TV anime adaptation of Momoko Sakura's autobiographical manga, produced by Nippon Animation and aired on Fuji TV's Sunday 6 PM slot. Set in Showa-era Shimizu, Shizuoka, the heartwarming family comedy follows third-grader Maruko and her family and friends through everyday life. Famed for its laid-back protagonist, Keaton Yamada's deadpan narration, and a colorful cast of classmates including Nagasawa, Fujiki, Hanawa, and Tama-chan, the series broke conventions of shojo manga adaptations. The ending theme 'Odoru Ponpokorin' became a massive cultural hit, and the franchise has remained a beloved national institution. (C)Sakura Production / Nippon Animation