Beyond Plus Ultra: Kohei Horikoshi Confirms New Manga in the Works Following the Conclusion of My Hero Academia

The final curtain has officially closed on the My Hero Academia manga, concluding one of the most commercially successful and influential superhero sagas of the modern era. Kohei Horikoshi’s decade-long epic, which chronicled the journey of Izuku Midoriya from a Quirkless dreamer to the world’s greatest hero, leaves an undeniable void in the competitive landscape of Weekly Shonen Jump. However, fans of the celebrated mangaka need not despair, as Horikoshi himself has confirmed that he is already deep in the concept stages of his highly anticipated next project, promising a fresh challenge and a departure from the world of Quirks.

The news, emerging shortly after the release of the final collected volume, which included extra pages offering a deeper epilogue to the story’s bittersweet conclusion, has sent ripples of excitement across the global manga and anime community. This swift return to the creative grind underscores Horikoshi’s dedication to his craft, even after completing a series that demanded a notoriously grueling weekly schedule. For investors and enthusiasts alike, the question is not if the next series will be a hit, but what groundbreaking narrative the master storyteller will unleash next. The potential successor is already generating significant buzz, making it a hot topic in entertainment news and a focus for high-value advertising placements.

The Creative Pressure and the Next Chapter

In interviews discussing the conclusion of My Hero Academia, Horikoshi openly acknowledged the immense pressure accompanying his next move. The massive, global franchise success of MHA, with its billions in box office revenue from films and consistently high-volume merchandise sales, sets an incredibly high bar. Yet, the creator’s intrinsic drive appears to outweigh the expectations.

Horikoshi is Confirmed to Helm Both Story and Art:

• Initially, the mangaka considered focusing purely on the art, allowing a separate writer to handle the narrative.
• However, his editor, recognizing Horikoshi’s comprehensive talent, reportedly encouraged him to maintain full creative control over both the story and illustrations.
• This commitment to a solo project is excellent news for fans who cherish his unique blend of dynamic action, expressive character design, and compelling emotional storytelling. It ensures the new work will carry the distinctive “Horikoshi flair” that made MHA a premium brand in the industry.

While definitive details on the new series remain under wraps—a strategic move that builds maximum marketing anticipation—Horikoshi has hinted at his desire to explore new creative avenues, specifically mentioning a genre he had previously shown interest in. This mystery project is currently in the concept stage, with the artist already working on early thumbnails and story layouts.

Shifting Genres: From Superheroes to the Supernatural?

The defining elements of My Hero Academia—superheroes, high school training, and the battle between good and evil—established a benchmark for the modern battle shonen genre. However, the creator has previously teased a fascination with a darker, more unsettling theme.

A Glimpse into the Future: The Horror Tease

Several years ago, in an interview with Weekly Shonen Jump, Horikoshi expressed a curiosity about the horror genre, stating, “I want to try drawing a horror manga. But just a little.” While this might imply a project that integrates horror elements rather than a full-blown, uncompromising terrifying narrative, it strongly suggests a stylistic departure. The intense, often grotesque, imagery seen in the later stages of MHA, particularly involving villains like Shigaraki and the darker side of the hero society, showcased his aptitude for unsettling visuals. A new series that leans into supernatural horror or a more grounded, tension-filled thriller could be the direction he takes, allowing him to challenge himself and address themes he felt he “couldn’t do with MHA.”

This potential move is a shrewd strategic decision. Transitioning to a new, distinct genre allows Horikoshi to leverage his reputation while avoiding immediate, direct comparisons to his previous global hit. It’s a bold move that keeps him at the forefront of new manga releases and guarantees significant media coverage upon announcement.

The Competition: Shonen Jump’s Search for the Next Pillar

The end of My Hero Academia, coupled with the similar conclusion of other major titles like Jujutsu Kaisen, has created a vacuum within Weekly Shonen Jump. The magazine is actively seeking the next generation of powerhouse series to anchor its lineup and secure its long-term investment value. While Horikoshi’s new work is the most anticipated arrival, other titles have quickly risen to prominence to fill the immediate gap.

Rising Stars and Potential Successors:

• Ichi the Witch (Digital Manga Success): This manga has gained significant traction, partially due to a personal recommendation from Horikoshi himself. While thematically different, it shares a foundation of likable characters and an endearing world, making it a spiritual successor in tone for many readers.
• Kagurabachi (Dark Shonen): This series has rapidly become a favorite for those seeking the dark action and high-stakes combat associated with later MHA and Jujutsu Kaisen, positioned by many as the magazine’s new “dark shonen” flagship.

However, none of these newcomers carry the established weight or brand recognition of a title helmed by Kohei Horikoshi. His confirmed next series is the true designated replacement, ensuring that when it drops, it will immediately dominate the publication charts and lead the comic book investment discussions.

The Legacy and the Future of the MHA Universe

Despite the main manga’s conclusion, the My Hero Academia universe is far from dormant, proving the enduring value proposition of the property. Horikoshi’s decision to wrap the main story does not mean an end to new content.

Continuing the MHA Storyline:

• Manga Epilogue: The final collected volume included a new, 38-page extended story, offering greater closure and insight into the lives of Deku and his classmates in the aftermath of the ultimate war.
• Spin-offs and Adaptations: The successful spin-off manga, My Hero Academia: Vigilantes, continues to expand the world’s lore, and the animated franchise, including the upcoming final seasons of the anime and new films, ensures the brand remains a dominant force in premium video content and international licensing.

The dedication to providing this extra content shows a deep respect for the fanbase and solidifies the franchise’s legacy. It clears the slate for Horikoshi to fully concentrate on his next groundbreaking work without the pressure of a sequel. Fans can expect an official announcement detailing the new manga’s genre, title, and release date within the coming months. Until then, the anticipation for Horikoshi’s new challenge—be it a spooky thriller, a different take on fantasy, or something entirely unexpected—continues to build, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in the global entertainment market and the undisputed master of his genre.