“5 Sweet (and Slightly Bitter) Facts About Marmalade Boy”

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Author’s Note

I’ll never forget when I first saw Japanese comedian Kendo Kobayashi sing the Marmalade Boy opening theme—

it was completely unexpected and absolutely hilarious.

That contrast—a big, tough-looking guy singing such a sweet, emotional song—

kind of reflects what makes Marmalade Boy so special:

It’s a story full of sweetness, but with a sharp, complex edge.

Just like the jam it’s named after.

💔 1. The Title Refers to a “Bittersweet” Personality

The name Marmalade Boy refers to Yuu, whose personality is sweet but sometimes sharp—just like marmalade jam.

It symbolizes the mix of romance and emotional confusion that defines the story.

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🏠 2. The Plot Starts with an Outrageous Family Swap

The story kicks off when Miki’s parents and Yuu’s parents divorce—and then switch partners and move in together, all under one roof!

It’s one of the most unusual romantic setups in any shojo manga and shocked many readers at the time.

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📺 3. It Was a Huge Hit on TV and Overseas

The anime aired from 1994 to 1995 and helped spark the shojo boom of the ’90s.

It was also immensely popular in Spanish-speaking countries and Taiwan, becoming a key title in globalizing shojo manga.

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✍️ 4. The Author, Wataru Yoshizumi, Was Known for Mixing Drama and Humor

While the plot has many emotional twists, Marmalade Boy is known for its moments of comedy and relatable teenage awkwardness—something Yoshizumi-sensei does particularly well.

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💞 5. There’s a Sequel Called Marmalade Boy Little

Did you know there’s a follow-up series?

Marmalade Boy Little follows the next generation—children of the main characters—and debuted in 2013, nearly 20 years after the original ended.