A special collaboration illustration featuring Chibi Maruko-chan drawn alongside Utada Hikaru has also been unveiled. Since the show's premiere in 1990, numerous iconic songs have graced its endings — "Pappa Paradise" marks the 13th ED theme in the series' history.
<Utada Hikaru's Comment>
"I first encountered Chibi Maruko-chan at the same age as Maruko — 9 years old. Having just moved from America to Japan, the show gave me a sense of everyday life in Japan while also conveying a universal humanity that transcends borders. I was captivated by its unique warmth and surrealism, unlike any anime or manga I had experienced before, and I became a fan of Sakura Momoko.
I started reading her essay collections too, and before I knew it, I had debuted myself. I was surprised when my name appeared in one of Sakura Momoko's books. Now, having become a mother myself — just as she was — receiving this offer for the ending theme felt like a beautiful connection of fate, and I was truly delighted.
The delicate depiction of feelings that everyone has experienced yet cannot quite name, arising in small, easily overlooked moments of daily life; the sharp yet compassionate gaze that never loses its humor and curiosity; the kindness that embraces even the uncool and hard-to-accept aspects of the chaotic world and human nature.
While feeling the pressure of writing a song to play at the end of a program that opens with the incredible 'Odoru Ponpokorin,' written by Sakura Momoko who taught me so many things... this song called 'Pappa Paradise' was born from my wish that children around the world, and all of us grown-up children too, cherish ourselves, cherish those we love, cherish these present moments that will someday become memories, and live gently yet strongly. Please enjoy the wordless lyrics and the free-flowing structure of the song.
The ending animation is also wonderful — it makes me cry. Thank you."
Official Site: https://chibimaru.tv
©Sakura Production / Nippon Animation
