Key Insights
- Aqua’s confrontation with his father culminates in a tragic sacrifice, ensuring his sister’s safety.
- Nino’s murder plot reveals Hikaru’s sinister manipulation, exposing a series of crime within the entertainment sector.
- Aqua’s demise paves the way for Ruby’s character growth, igniting debate over the manga’s swift conclusion.
WARNING: This article contains major spoilers for the Oshi no Ko manga and anime.
Introduction to Oshi no Ko
The Oshi no Ko franchise has evolved beyond its initial portrayal of reincarnation and idol themes, gradually uncovering its profound psychological elements and a grim examination of the entertainment industry’s darker realities. As we navigate through a narrative filled with cunning characters and tragic events, we arrive at a poignant ending marked by controversy. This narrative is currently recognized as the second-highest-selling manga of the past decade.
Overview of the Plot and Conclusion
Spanning 11 story arcs across 16 volumes, Oshi no Ko is anticipated to conclude with its 166th chapter. This article focuses on the contentious final story arc to fully explore the manga’s ending, which serves as a retrospective on unfolding events and their implications for the characters’ futures. Prepare for rampant spoilers ahead!
Confrontations
Aqua and Hikaru: A Climactic Clash
Aqua’s journey culminates in a dramatic encounter with his father, Hikaru, during the premiere of The 15 Year Lie—a biopic intended to unveil the truth about Ai Hoshino, Aqua’s mother. In a moment of shock, Hikaru confesses to being involved in Ai’s murder. Aqua, holding a DVD containing Ai’s heartfelt confession of love for Hikaru, leaves his father engulfed in guilt. However, Aqua soon realizes that Hikaru cannot be solely blamed for the string of murders, suggesting further culpability from a prior B-Komachi member.
Simultaneously, Nino devises a desperate plan to retaliate against Ruby for surpassing her mother’s talent. Her attack on who she thought was Ruby turns into a futile endeavor when she discovers Akane in disguise. Nino’s failure exposes her schemes and unveils Hikaru’s manipulative nature to both Ruby and Akane. In a later twist, Nino submits to the authorities, unraveling a vast network of crime and homicide within the entertainment world.
The climax escalates as Aqua confronts Hikaru during Ruby’s live-stream performance, brandishing resolve against his father. Hikaru attempts to twist the narrative, persuading Aqua that his violent intentions would tarnish his sister’s reputation. Despite initial agreement, Aqua realizes the persistent threat Hikaru poses to Ruby, leading to a harrowing decision—he plunges a knife into himself and pushes both himself and Hikaru off a cliff into the sea. While Hikaru clings to life for a brief moment, Aqua’s final act is one of protection, culminating in Hikaru’s ultimate demise as he sinks beneath the waves, haunted by the victims of his past.
“The reason I lived… definitely not for revenge. It was to protect my own sister. That’s why I was born as a twin, closest to my sister. Thank goodness this time, I can die before you.”
Aqua’s Final Moments: Dreams, a Funeral, and Future Prospects
Reflections on Aqua’s Past Life
In his last moments, Aqua drifts into memories of his past life as Gorou, where he envisions a world in which Sarina’s surgery was successful. In this imagined reality, she recovers fully and embraces her dreams as an idol—an embodiment of Ruby’s potential now that Aqua has made the ultimate sacrifice.
As reality sets in, Aqua’s physical state deteriorates. Regret floods his consciousness as he succumbs to unconsciousness, yet he passes away with a semblance of peace, inviting the comforting visions of B-Komachi. Shortly after the premiere of The 15 Year Lie, Aqua’s lifeless body is discovered in the ocean, preserved by its chill. Although Akane mourns their lost potential, Ruby remains secluded, trapped in her grief.
Ruby’s Legacy and Future
Years later, Ruby emerges with white stars in her eyes, a poignant symbol of Aqua’s spirit and a tribute to their mother, Ai. Her journey as an idol, marked by tragedy, captivates the audience. The dream of performing at Tokyo Dome, once held solely by Ai, materializes for Ruby, further underscoring the family legacy. Closing the series, Ruby reaches out to her mother and brother, seeking their guidance as she steps toward a brighter horizon shaped by their sacrifices.
Fan Reactions: Discontent and Discussion
Critiques of a Rushed Conclusion
Notably, a significant section of the fanbase expresses dissatisfaction regarding the perceived haste of the manga’s conclusion. Aquas’s quest for vengeance against his mother’s murderer seemed poised for a more gradual resolution, leaving readers expecting a more profound development. Critics liken this ending to the previous work of Aka Akasaka, the creator of Kaguya-Sama: Love is War, which also saw a muddled finale. A viral tweet has surfaced, urging Akasaka to take a breather before moving on to a new fantasy narrative set to launch in 2025.
While the argument for a rushed ending has validity, particularly regarding the packed storyline within several chapters, it invites a deeper inquiry. Aqua’s demise ultimately serves as a catalyst for Ruby’s character evolution—leading her to rise beyond her mother’s shadows. Thus, while perhaps controversial in execution, Aqua’s story finds resolution in a poignant, albeit tragic, manner.
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