Aikatsu Friends!

Aine Yūki starts out as an ordinary, friendly student at Star Harmony Academy's general education track, where she stands apart from the elite idol classes. Her natural ability to connect with others leads her to meet top performer Mio Minato, and that friendship nudges Aine toward trying out idol activities herself. The show follows her early efforts at singing and dancing, the rehearsal room setbacks, and the everyday moments that shape her confidence. Alongside classmates and rivals she learns about cooperation, practice, and performing, while school life and personal relationships remain central to the story rather than high-stakes drama or surprise twists.

Released in 2018, Aikatsu Friends! was directed by Tatsuya Igarashi and created by Yuko Kakihara. The series stars Yui Ninomiya as Hinata Ema, Akane Matsunaga as Yuuki Aine, Yuuki Kuwahara as Shirayuri Kaguya, Saori Onishi as Alicia Charlotte, and Emiri Suyama as Shirayuri Sakuya.

As a television series, box office reporting doesn't apply. Its success is measured through broadcast ratings, home video, music releases and related merchandise rather than theatrical revenue, so there are no box office totals to list.

Within idol-focused anime circles the show reinforced popular elements like duo partnerships, themed songs, and collectible character designs aimed at younger viewers. It supported ongoing merchandising and live event tie-ins typical of the genre, and several songs and costume sets became recognizable among fans who follow idol series and related media events.

Available ratings suggest a positive reception, with an average score of 8.25 out of 10 from 12 votes. Viewers tend to appreciate its emphasis on friendship, teamwork and steady personal growth, plus light comedy and family-friendly drama. The series leans into upbeat music, colorful visuals and accessible stories that make it suitable for kids and families while still offering enough character moments for older fans.