Love Live is nothing new to Anime Expo. Aquors has graced the stage here multiple times, with the most recent being in 2019. No one could have predicted a multi-year break, but here we are.  Time to get back up to speed.

It was announced earlier today that Love Live will make a return to Anime Expo.  On July 1 in the JW Platinum Ballroom, a panel titled "Nice to See You in Los Angeles" will take place. Well, if you've been in the Love Live fandom for a while, you already know all three of the guests.

Aika Kobayashi, better known as Yohane (Love Live! Sunshine!!, Yohane of the Parhelion)

Mayu Sagara, better known as Kasumi Nakasu (Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club)

Sayuri Date, better known as Kanon Shibuya (Love Live! Superstar!!)

Now last time, the year after a talk show panel meant a concert, so with any luck, we'll see the same come 2024. The Love Live landscape has changed quite a bit between 2019 and now, so Kadokawa and Bandai Namco have lots of options.  There's been a lot of Japanese bands and music making their return to international performances so I do hope they come back in full-force next year.  

The panel will involve some talking, screenings, and more.  With Yohane of the Parhelion set to air in July 2023, it would not be unheard of to have a first episode screening.  Aquors characters in a fantasy setting is the perfect choice for our chuuni Yohane.

We also have the game Love Live! School Idol Festival 2 on the horizon, and the official staff sneaked in a note that SIF 2 will be on-site at Anime Expo too.  Last month, it was announced that a global version would be released in multiple languages.

See you in July. It's coming up fast.