More than three decades after the original TV anime ended, Neon Genesis Evangelion, one of the biggest icons in sci-fi anime, has officially confirmed a brand-new series. The announcement at Anime Expo 2026 quickly became the center of attention for fans worldwide.
Few anime have had as deep an impact as Evangelion. Despite the controversial ending of the 1996 TV version, the franchise has remained vibrant for 30 years through numerous movies, special projects, and the Rebuild series helmed by creator Hideaki Anno. However, this new project marks a complete turning point, developed by a different creative team.
New Evangelion Anime Releases First Teaser
At Anime Expo 2026, audiences were treated to the first teaser of the new Evangelion series. Although the trailer revealed very little about the story, it confirmed the project has officially entered production.
Notably, the publisher also released an English-language version of the teaser during the event. This indicates the project is aimed at a global release from the start, rather than focusing solely on the Japanese market like many other anime.
The production team has yet to announce an official release date or broadcast schedule. However, the early appearance of the English teaser has led many to believe international viewers won’t have to wait long after the anime premieres in Japan.
Studio Khara Teams Up with CloverWorks
One of the most notable aspects of the project is the collaboration between Studio Khara, the rights holder of Evangelion, and CloverWorks, the studio behind popular anime like Spy x Family, My Dress-Up Darling, and Rascal Does Not Dream.
Directors Kazuya Tsurumaki and Toru Yatabe, who worked on previous Evangelion films, will lead the new project. This ensures the series maintains a connection to the original spirit of the franchise, even as it takes a new direction.
The blend of Studio Khara’s long-standing experience and CloverWorks’ modern animation style is expected to bring a fresh look to one of anime’s most famous mecha franchises.
NieR Creator to Write the Script
The biggest surprise for the anime community is the choice of scriptwriter.
It was announced that Yoko Taro, the creator of the acclaimed NieR game series, will directly write the script for the new Evangelion series. Meanwhile, the music will be composed by Keiichi Okabe, known for his work on NieR: Automata and NieR Replicant.
Yoko Taro is famous for his philosophical storytelling, unexpected plot twists, and themes exploring humanity, war, and existence. Many believe he is the perfect fit to carry on Evangelion’s legacy.
This is also a rare occasion where Yoko Taro takes on the role of screenwriter for a major anime franchise instead of a video game project.
Will Evangelion Be a Reboot or a New Story?
Despite revealing the production team, many mysteries remain about the project.
The producers have not confirmed whether this will be a reboot retelling Shinji Ikari’s story and the EVAs, or a completely new chapter with different characters. This question has sparked lively debate among fans since the teaser’s release.
After 30 years, Evangelion has become a cultural icon and a major influence on countless mecha and sci-fi anime. Any changes to the franchise will carry significant pressure.
However, if successful, this could be the most remarkable revival of an anime legend in many years.