The ending of Oshi no Ko brings a heartfelt and bittersweet close to a journey that began with reincarnation, revenge, and the allure of a second chance at life.

ONE Esports’ Oshi no Ko ending explained article delves into how creator Aka Akasaka shifts from fantasy to the raw truths of life, reminding us that even those gifted with multiple lives aren’t immune to fate’s twists.

Aqua Hoshino and Ruby Hoshino in featured image for ONE Esports article "Where does Oshi no Ko leave off in the manga?"
Credit: Doga Kobo
Where does Oshi no Ko leave off in the manga? Start your reading journey here

The finale highlights resilience and healing through Ruby Hoshino, Kana Arima, and the friends who carry on Aqua Hoshino’s legacy. It reveals how, even in the darkest moments, the light of ambition and memory can shine brightest.

The ending captures the essence of Oshi no Ko—revealing that, despite life’s uncertainties, those who persevere can leave an unforgettable mark on the world.

Oshi no Ko manga final chapter recap

The chapter cover of the final Oshi no Ko manga chapter, chapter 166
Oshi no Ko chapter 166 cover

In Chapter 166, titled “The Last Chapter,” Oshi no Ko concluded with the world mourning the tragic loss of Aqua.

In the aftermath of Aqua’s death, Ruby was devastated, destroying posters in her room and crying constantly as she struggled to accept that he was truly gone.

Despite her grief, Ruby managed to rise up, carrying her pain and sadness as she began to move forward again. Kana did the same, encouraging others to continue on with life. Akane Kurokawa explained that they chose to search for meaning in their lives while occasionally remembering those who had passed.

Nagisa Saito as Ruby Hoshino and Asuka Saito as Ai Hoshino in featured image for ONE Esports article "Oshi no Ko live-action cast: Meet the real-life stars"
Credit: Amazon Prime Video, Toei Company
Oshi no Ko live-action cast: Meet the real-life stars

Kana brought Mem-Cho to Ruby, offering her support in this time of need. Meanwhile, Aqua and Ruby’s friends from the entertainment industry—Minami Kotobuki, Frill Shiranui, Melt Narushima, and Taiki Himekawa—were also shown grappling with the reality of Aqua’s passing.

Akane inspired Miyako and Ichigo Saito to continue running Strawberry Productions. Kana and Akane pursued their acting careers, while director Taishi Gotanda remained committed to storytelling.

7 anime like Oshi no Ko, Aquamarine and Ruby Hoshino in Yoasobi's Idol music video for Oshi no Ko
Credit: Doga Kobo, ONE Esports
7 anime like Oshi no Ko that will make you laugh, cry, and dance a little

Akane described Ruby’s efforts to persevere in her idol career, concealing her sadness with lies and forcing herself to smile, channeling her inner darkness into her performances where it mattered most. Driven to keep Aqua’s dreams alive, Ruby did everything she could to carry on his legacy.

To the world, Ruby’s tragedy unfolded like a gripping drama, with the “True Story” of Ruby Hoshino capturing fans’ fascination. She became someone they couldn’t look away from.

Oshi no Ko character Ai Hoshino seen performing in season 1 as the featured image for ONE Esports' article "Oshi no Ko soundtrack: All opening and ending songs"
Credit: Doga Kobo, Sentai Filmworks, Aka Akasaka, ONE Esports
Oshi no Ko anime soundtrack: All opening and ending songs

Ruby finally realized her mother’s dream by performing at the Tokyo Dome, joined by Mem-Cho and a new artist who replaced Kana. Akane and Kana watched proudly from the audience, moved by Ruby’s resilience.

Akane reflected that Ruby’s tragic experiences resonated deeply with those in darkness. The darker her journey became, the brighter she shone, like a star against the night sky.

Oshi no Ko ended with Ruby leaving her apartment for rehearsals, acknowledging the lies she must continue to tell. No matter how difficult things became, she resolved to smile and enjoy the stage, motivated by the thought that both Ai and Aqua were watching over her.

Oshi no Ko ending explained

Oshi no Ko main character Aqua Hoshino seen in the anime's season 2 trailer
Credit: Doga Kobo, Sentai Filmworks, Aka Akasaka

The final chapter revealed a mirrored path between Ai and Ruby in show business.

During her time, Ai was one of Japan’s most promising idols. She inspired people who struggled in darkness, like Sabrina Tendouji, who faced a terminal illness. Ai’s music and presence gave Sabrina strength and comfort, providing her with hope and purpose in the face of her illness.

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10 anime references in rap music that only true otakus will understand

Sabrina admired Ai deeply, not just for her talent but also for her ability to radiate warmth and resilience—a beacon of hope that helped Sabrina cope with her own hardships.

However, Ai’s life was tragically cut short due to the sinister actions of Hikaru Kamiki, the man who fathered her children and became dangerously obsessed with her. Despite the hardships surrounding her life as a performer, Ai never ceased to be a source of light and inspiration for those struggling, like Sabrina.

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Credit: ONE Esports
The 10 best shonen anime to watch with your nakamas

Following Aqua’s death, Ruby found herself at a similar crossroads, facing a painful journey while choosing to continue her career despite the tragedies she endured. Through her dedication, she, too, became a source of strength for others experiencing difficult times, carrying on her mother’s legacy by shining a light for those in darkness.

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