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Princess Comet
Cover of the 2021 Blu-ray release of the anime series.
コメットさん
(Kometto-san)
GenreMagical girl
Created byMitsuteru Yokoyama
Manga
Written byMitsuteru Yokoyama
Published byShueisha
MagazineMargaret
Original runJune 10, 1967 – November 11, 1967
Volumes1
Television drama
Princess Comet: Yumiko Kokonoe
Directed byŌtsuki Yoshikazu
Written byMamoru Sasaki
Music byJoji Yuasa
Masashi Tashiro
StudioInternational Television Films
A Production[1](Animated Segments)
Original networkTBS
Original run July 3, 1967 – December 30, 1968
Episodes79
Television drama
Princess Comet: Kumiko Ohba
Directed byNoriaki Yuasa
Yoshiharu Tomita
Music byMasaaki Hirao
Hiroaki Hagiwara
StudioInternational Television Films
Original networkTBS
Original run June 12, 1978 – September 24, 1979
Episodes68
Anime television series
Cosmic Baton Girl Princess Comet
Directed byMamoru Kanbe
Written byAkira Okeya
Music byMoka
StudioNippon Animation
Original networkTXN (TV Osaka, TV Tokyo)
Original run April 1, 2001 – January 27, 2002
Episodes43
icon Anime and manga portal

Princess Comet (コメットさん, Kometto-san; "Mrs. Comet") is a multimedia franchise beginning with a dorama series created by Mitsuteru Yokoyama and produced by International Television Films, a division of the film company Toho. Directed by Ōtsuki Yoshikazu and written by Mamoru Sasaki, it stars Japanese singer and actor Yumiko Kokonoe[2] in its lead role as Comet, a mischievous girl from the Beta Star sent to Earth after causing mischief who must learn responsibility while using her magical powers to solve her problems. The series aired on TBS from July 3, 1967, to September 24, 1979. A short-lived manga series written and illustrated by Mitsuteru Yokoyama was released from June 10, 1967, to November 11, 1967.

A second series, created 10 years after the original, was aired on the same network from June 12, 1978, to September 24, 1979, while an anime remake based on aspects from both live action series was produced by Nippon Animation and aired on TV Osaka and TV Tokyo from April 1, 2001, to January 27, 2002.

The first two series are notable for being the first live-action magical girl series produced in Japan, while the first series is the first live-action series released in color.[3]

Plot

[edit]

Yumiko Kokonoe series

[edit]

Far away in the deep reaches of space lies the Beta Star, where magical human-like people live. Comet is one of those people who is a student in a school in the Beta Star. But one day, she made an accident in the school, causing the principal to get angry at her and banish her to Earth in hopes it can teach her to be responsible for her actions. In Earth, she made her residence with both the Kawagoe and Ishihara families as she uses her magic to solve some problems with a little guidance.

Kumiko Ohba series

[edit]

Comet is a student living in the Virgo Star System, in which she embarked on a studies trip in hopes for her to graduate. Her assignment for her studies is to "search for the most beautiful things on the planet she chose to settle on." She stayed with the Sawano family as a house maid she forms a bond with them while she uses her magic baton to solve her problems.

2001 series

[edit]

Deep within the universe lies the Triangle Nebula, a star cluster ruled by three monarchs of the Harmonica Star country, the Castanet Star country and the Tambourine Star country and either two of the three kingdom's union could unite the Triangle Nebula into a new star. The story revolves Comet, a twelve-year-old princess and heir of the Harmonica Star country. However, one day when the prince of the Tambourine Star country is reported to be missing, Comet, alongside her assistant Rubabou, are tasked to be sent to Earth in hopes for her to find the missing prince with her only clue being "He will be known by the twinkling in his eyes." She made her residence with the Fujiyoshi Family after they took her in and became a babysitter and friend to twins Tsuyoshi and Nene. Using her magic skills, Comet uses it to solve her problems as she navigates herself in Earth, while Princess Meteor, the heiress of the Castanet Star country learns of Comet's orders to find the prince, arrives on Earth planning to marry the prince before Comet gets the chance. The series is set in Kamakura, Kanagawa, Japan.

Media

[edit]

TV drama

[edit]

The original live-action drama series, widely known by fans as "Yumiko Kokonoe's Comet-san" (九重佑三子のコメットさん, Kokonoe Yumiko no Kometto-san), was produced by International Television Films with A Production animating some of its animated segments done by Tsutomu Shibayama and Yoshio Kabashima.[1] It was first broadcast by Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) from July 3, 1967, to December 30, 1968, with a total of 79 episodes. Beginning in Episode 49, it became the first live action series to be aired in color.[3]

A second series, known to fans as "Kumiko Ohba's Comet-san" (大場久美子のコメットさん, Ōba Kumiko no Kometto-san) to differentiate it to the first, was produced 10 years after the original. Directed by Noriaki Yuasa and Yoshiharu Tomita, it stars Kumiko Ohba as the titular character, while the story is vastly different from the original series. It aired on Tokyo Broadcasting System from June 12, 1978, to September 24, 1979, with a total of 68 episodes.

Manga

[edit]

A short manga adaptation of the first series was serialized in Shueisha's monthly Margaret from July to November 1967, illustrated by Mitsuteru Yokoyama, starting slightly before the first drama series.

Anime

[edit]

An anime series titled Cosmic Baton Girl Comet-san (Cosmic Baton Girl コメットさん☆, Cosmic Baton Girl Kometto-san) was animated by Nippon Animation and SynergySP, directed by Mamoru Kanbe and written by Akira Okeya, with character designs done by Kazuaki Makida. The series premiered on TV Osaka and TV Tokyo from April 1, 2001, to January 27, 2002, with a total of 43 episodes. Nayu Nibori performed the first opening theme "Kimi ni Smile" (君にスマイル, Kimi ni sumairu; "Smile for You") while Shizuka Nakayama performed the second theme song "Miracle Power ~Stardust Version~" (ミラクルパワー 〜スターダスト・バージョン〜, Mirakuru pawā 〜 sutādasuto bājon 〜). Saeko Chiba performed the first ending theme "Twinkle☆Star" (トゥインクル☆スター, Touinkuru ☆ sutā) while Sayuri Tanaka performed the second ending theme "Hoshi no Parade☆" (星のパレード☆, Hoshi no parēdo☆; "Parade of Stars☆"). The music is composed by Moka. For audiences outside Japan, the series was licensed by Animax under the title "Princess Comet".[4]

The anime starred Aki Maeda as Comet and Chieko Honda as Meteo.

An associated manga by Sayori Abe was serialised on Shogakukan's educational magazines[5] and a Korean game was made by Sonokong.[6] An officially authorised, fan-operated internet radio, "Hoshi no Ko Internet Radio", aired during the period of broadcast.[7]

Episode list

[edit]
No.TitleOriginal release date
1"The One Who Carries the Twinkle of the Stars"
"Hoshi no kagayaki o motsu mono" (星の輝きを持つ者)		April 1, 2001 (2001-04-01)
2"New Home"
"Atarashii ie" (新しい家)		April 8, 2001 (2001-04-08)
3"Tunnel of Stars"
"Hoshi no ton'neru" (星のトンネル)		April 15, 2001 (2001-04-15)
4"Exciting Zoo Trip"
"Wakuwaku dōbutsu-en" (わくわく動物園)		April 22, 2001 (2001-04-22)
5"Slow and Steady Kingdom-Making"
"Yukkuri ōkoku-zukuri" (ゆっくり王国づくり)		April 29, 2001 (2001-04-29)
6"Something to Put in the Store"
"O mise ni oku mono" (お店に置くもの)		May 6, 2001 (2001-05-06)
7"Faeries Living in Radiance"
"Kirakira ni sumu yōsei" (キラキラにすむ妖精)		May 13, 2001 (2001-05-13)
8"Wonderful Dress-Making"
"Sutekina doresu-zukuri" (素敵なドレスづくり)		May 20, 2001 (2001-05-20)
9"Cradle of Clouds"
"Kumo no yuri kago" (雲のゆりかご)		May 27, 2001 (2001-05-27)
10"First Love"
"Hajimete no suki" (はじめての好き)		June 3, 2001 (2001-06-03)
11"The Power of the Baton"
"Baton no chikara" (バトンの力)		June 9, 2001 (2001-06-09)
12"Rababou's Kidnapping Incident"
"Rababō yuu kai jiken" (ラバボー ゆうかい事件)		June 17, 2001 (2001-06-17)
13"Night of the Sewing People"
"Nuibito-tachi no yoru" (ヌイビトたちの夜)		June 24, 2001 (2001-06-24)
14"The Star-Worlds' Tanabata Legend"
"Hoshi-koku no tanabata densetsu" (星国の七夕伝説)		July 1, 2001 (2001-07-01)
15"The Shadow-Person's Challenge"
"Kagebito no chōsen" (カゲビトの挑戦)		July 8, 2001 (2001-07-08)
16"Let's Search for the Palace of the Dragon King"
"Ryū Miyagi o sagasou" (竜宮城を探そう)		July 15, 2001 (2001-07-15)
17"Meteo-san's Tears"
"Meteo-san no namida" (メテオさんの涙)		July 22, 2001 (2001-07-22)
18"The Fighting Robot"
"Tatakau robo" (戦うロボ)		July 29, 2001 (2001-07-29)
19"Another Comet"
"Mō ichi-nin no Kometto" (もう一人のコメット)		August 5, 2001 (2001-08-05)
20"Rabapyon's Kiss"
"Rabapyon no kisu" (ラバピョンのキス)		August 12, 2001 (2001-08-12)
21"The Magical Power of Love"
"Mirakuru koi-ryoku" (ミラクル恋力)		August 19, 2001 (2001-08-19)
22"Rubbabou's desperation"
"Zetsubō no Rababō" (ゼツボーのラバボー)		August 26, 2001 (2001-08-26)
23"Higenoshita's Shine"
"Higenoshita no kagayaki" (ヒゲノシタの輝き)		September 2, 2001 (2001-09-02)
24"The Siblings from Tambourine Star Country"
"Tanbarin-boshi-koku no ane otōto" (タンバリン星国の姉弟)		September 9, 2001 (2001-09-09)
25"The Forgotten Brilliance"
"Wasure chatta kagayaki" (忘れちゃった輝き)		September 16, 2001 (2001-09-16)
26"Please give me Star Power"
"Hoshi-ryoku o kudasai" (星力をください)		August 23, 2001 (2001-08-23)
27"Keisuke's Dream"
"Kēsuke no yume no mi" (ケースケの夢の実)		September 30, 2001 (2001-09-30)
28"How I Can Help"
"Otetsudai dekiru koto" (お手伝いできること)		October 7, 2001 (2001-10-07)
29"The Storm of Castanet"
"Kasutanetto-boshi-koku no arashi" (カスタネット星国の嵐)		October 14, 2001 (2001-10-14)
30"Clay-playing with Star Power"
"Hoshi-ryoku de nendo asobi" (星力で粘土あそび)		October 21, 2001 (2001-10-21)
31"There are many Manebito-san"
"Manebito-san ga ippai" (マネビトさんがいっぱい)		October 28, 2001 (2001-10-28)
32"Nokoshitao-bake arrives"
"Nokoshitaobake ga yattekuru" (ノコシタオバケがやってくる)		November 4, 2001 (2001-11-04)
33"Like a Princess at times"
"Tokiniwa ōjo no yō ni" (時には王女のように)		November 11, 2001 (2001-11-11)
34"Bonds of the Stars"
"Hoshi no kizuna" (星の絆)		November 18, 2001 (2001-11-18)
35"The Snow Dance"
"Yuki no dansu" (雪のダンス)		November 25, 2001 (2001-11-25)
36"Everyone's Prince"
"Min'na no ōji-sama" (みんなの王子さま)		December 2, 2001 (2001-12-02)
37"The Mischevious Cupid"
"Itazura Kyūpito" (いたずらキューピト)		December 9, 2001 (2001-12-09)
38"Misfortune of Feelings"
"Kimochi no sainan" (キモチの災難)		December 16, 2001 (2001-12-16)
39"The Christmas Starman"
"Santabito ni naritai" (サンタビトになりたい)		December 23, 2001 (2001-12-23)
40"The Keisuke who has lost his glow"
"Kagayaki o nakushita Kēsuke" (輝きをなくしたケースケ)		December 30, 2001 (2001-12-30)
41"Someone from Tambourine Star Country"
"Tanbarin-boshi-koku no dareka-san" (タンバリン星国の誰かさん)		January 6, 2002 (2002-01-06)
42"How to say Goodbye"
"Sayonara no shikata" (サヨナラの仕方)		January 13, 2002 (2002-01-13)
43"The Twinkle in the Eye"
"Ni utsuru kagayaki" (瞳に映る輝き)		January 20, 2002 (2002-01-20)

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Princess Comet

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Princess Comet (Japanese: コメットさん, Kometto-san, also known as Cosmic Baton Girl Comet-san) is a Japanese series written and illustrated by , serialized in Shueisha's magazine from June to November 1967, and adapted into live-action television series in 1967–1968 and 1978–1979, as well as a 43-episode television series by that aired from April 1, 2001, to January 27, 2002. The story centers on , a 12-year-old princess from the distant in the Triangle Nebula, who travels to to locate the missing prince of the neighboring , her destined partner, after he runs away to and lives as an ordinary human boy. As one of the pioneering works in the genre—following Yokoyama's earlier (1966)—the original introduced themes of interstellar adventure, romance, and magical transformation, with Comet using her cosmic powers to solve problems and learn responsibility on . The 2001 adaptation, directed by Mamoru Kanbe with series composition by Akira Okeya, expands on this premise, depicting Comet's school life, friendships, and battles against antagonistic forces like the rival Princess Meteor, all while wielding a star-powered baton and accompanied by her pet Rubba Ball. Produced for and later broadcast internationally, including in , the series blends fantasy elements with coming-of-age narratives, contributing to the evolution of magical girl in the early .

Plot summaries

1967–1968 series

Comet, portrayed by Yumiko Kokonoe, serves as the central protagonist of the 1967–1968 live-action series, depicted as an impulsive princess from Beta Star in the Andromeda constellation. Banished to Earth as punishment for her mischievous behavior, she must learn human social norms and responsibility while residing with terrestrial families. Her character embodies youthful exuberance and naivety, often leading to comedic misunderstandings as she adapts to everyday life, with her growth emphasized through gradual mastery of Earthly customs. Comet's magical abilities are confined to practical problem-solving spells executed via her signature magic baton, which she employs to resolve domestic mishaps and interpersonal conflicts without altering the fundamental laws of . This limitation underscores her journey of restraint and utility, distinguishing her powers from unlimited fantasy and tying them directly to her educational . Family dynamics in the series amplify cultural clashes, as Comet's extraterrestrial perspective—such as her literal interpretations of idioms or disregard for —creates humorous friction, yet fosters bonds that teach her and . The supporting human characters primarily consist of members from the Kawagoe and Ishihara families, who act as hosts, friends, and mentors facilitating Comet's integration into society. The Kawagoe household, led by Junichiro Kawagoe and his wife Ryuko, includes their prank-prone sons and Koji, whose antics mirror Comet's own impulsivity and provide opportunities for her to practice guidance and patience in a structured family environment. Midway through the series, Comet transitions to the Ishihara family, where car designer Saburo Ishihara and his wife Sumiko, along with the children, offer a fresh dynamic that continues to expose her to diverse human relationships and professional settings, reinforcing lessons in humility and teamwork. These families' roles highlight generational and occupational contrasts that aid Comet's cultural acclimation without overt intervention. Antagonists from Beta Star, including the authoritative Star Principal who initially exiles Comet and enforcers like Betan, represent the external pressure to return her to her home planet, pursuing her intermittently to enforce compliance with interstellar rules. These figures embody the rigid hierarchy of Comet's origin world, contrasting sharply with Earth's forgiving social fabric and compelling her to defend her progress in adaptation. Their interventions underscore the series' theme of balancing alien heritage with newfound human values.

1978–1979 series

In the 1978–1979 live-action adaptation of Princess Comet, the titular character Comet is portrayed by Japanese idol and actress Kumiko Ohba. Comet is depicted as a refined young princess from the Virgo constellation (乙女座), dispatched to Earth as part of her stellar school's graduation examination to discover "the most beautiful thing" in the world, drawing inspiration from human aesthetics and emotions. She assumes the role of a live-in housekeeper at the Sawano family's music classroom, where she subtly employs her magic baton to assist those in need, emphasizing themes of beauty through interpersonal connections and artistic expression rather than overt mischief. This portrayal highlights Comet's character development, as her quest evolves from a simplistic search for visual splendor to a deeper appreciation of emotional and creative bonds, often explored through music, painting, and daily human rituals. The supporting human characters center on the Sawano family, who provide Comet with a grounded earthly environment that embodies diverse ideals of beauty. The family patriarch, Sawano Kōhei, played by Kiyoshi Igarashi (五十嵐喜芳), runs a local music school and represents disciplined artistic harmony through his teaching and family leadership. His wife, Sawano Sawako, portrayed by Junko Maya (真屋順子), embodies nurturing elegance and emotional warmth, often facilitating Comet's integration into domestic life while showcasing beauty in familial support. Their son, Sawano Junpei, acted by Kazutaka Nishikawa (西川和孝), is a lively schoolboy whose youthful curiosity and school experiences introduce Comet to playful, innocent perspectives on aesthetics, contrasting more mature ideals. Comet's acquaintances further diversify the exploration of beauty ideals, serving as peers who inspire her through varied personal expressions. Hanamura Yōko, played by Midori Kiuchi (木内みどり), is the wife of the Sawano family's neighbor, interacting with Comet through community ties and helping her understand earthly social dynamics. Other acquaintances, such as Chii (Chie Yamaguchi), contribute to group dynamics that highlight collective joy and individuality, reinforcing the series' focus on beauty as multifaceted and relational rather than singular. The series primarily emphasizes positive human interactions and episodic challenges through , tying into the broader franchise's interstellar themes of cultural exchange. The adaptation innovates with practical live-action effects for Comet's spells, forgoing the puppet of prior versions to prioritize character-driven narratives centered on artistic and emotional pursuits.

2001 anime series

Princess Comet, voiced by Aki Maeda, serves as the protagonist, an energetic 12-year-old princess from Harmonica Star dispatched to to locate the missing prince of Tambourine Star, whose identity is marked by eyes that sparkle like starlight. Her baton, powered by star energy and paired with a pendant containing the Rubba Ball, enables magical abilities central to her quest, evolving from initial naivety about terrestrial life to greater decisiveness as she adapts and matures through interpersonal challenges. Maeda's infuses Comet with a cheerful, curious tone that highlights her emotional range, from wide-eyed wonder to resolute determination. The character's design merges classic motifs—such as her transformation sequences and whimsical accessories—with space opera flair, featuring cosmic motifs like star clips in her pink curled hair and outfits evoking interstellar royalty. Comet's key allies bolster her efforts in the prince-finding mission, starting with Rubabou, her loyal fairy assistant depicted as a small, puppy-like creature from the star world, complete with a star-tipped tail. Voiced by , Rubabou provides practical aid and , often assisting in magical tasks or scouting clues, while its adorable, balloon-esque design underscores the series' blend of whimsy and cosmic adventure. The Fujiyoshi family further anchors Comet emotionally, acting as her adoptive hosts who offer warmth and stability amid her extraterrestrial trials. Comprising father Keitarō (voiced by Jin Yamanoi), mother Sayaka (voiced by ), and fraternal twins Tsuyoshi (voiced by Kurumi Mamiya) and Nene (voiced by ), the family integrates Comet into daily life; the playful twins, in particular, form a sibling-like bond, confiding in her magic and providing joyful support that helps her navigate homesickness and isolation. Opposing Comet is her primary rival, Princess Meteor, voiced by Chieko Honda, the scheming princess of Castanet Star driven by jealousy to claim the prince for herself. Meteor's personality is brash and antagonistic, characterized by loud outbursts, selfish demands, and princess-like tantrums that contrast Comet's composure, often leading her to spy on Comet's leads rather than conduct an independent search. Though primarily obstructive, her unwilling interventions occasionally advance the narrative, adding tension to the royal pursuit. Honda's performance amplifies Meteor's rude, volatile edge with nuanced hints of underlying vulnerability. Meteor's visual design echoes rivalry tropes—vibrant blue-green hair and elaborate gowns—infused with antagonism, positioning her as a cosmic foil to Comet's heroism.

Characters

1967–1968 series

Comet, portrayed by Yumiko Kokonoe, serves as the central protagonist of the 1967–1968 live-action series, depicted as an impulsive princess from Beta Star in the Andromeda constellation. Banished to Earth as punishment for her mischievous behavior, she must learn human social norms and responsibility while residing with terrestrial families. Her character embodies youthful exuberance and naivety, often leading to comedic misunderstandings as she adapts to everyday life, with her growth emphasized through gradual mastery of Earthly customs. Comet's magical abilities are confined to practical problem-solving spells executed via her signature magic baton, which she employs to resolve domestic mishaps and interpersonal conflicts without altering the fundamental laws of . This limitation underscores her journey of restraint and utility, distinguishing her powers from unlimited fantasy and tying them directly to her educational . Family dynamics in the series amplify cultural clashes, as Comet's extraterrestrial perspective—such as her literal interpretations of idioms or disregard for —creates humorous friction, yet fosters bonds that teach her and . The supporting human characters primarily consist of members from the Kawagoe and Ishihara families, who act as hosts, friends, and mentors facilitating Comet's integration into society. The Kawagoe household, led by Junichiro Kawagoe and his wife Ryuko, includes their prank-prone sons and Koji, whose antics mirror Comet's own and provide opportunities for her to practice guidance and patience in a structured family environment. Midway through the series, Comet transitions to the Ishihara family, where car designer Saburo Ishihara and his wife Sumiko, along with the children, offer a fresh dynamic that continues to expose her to diverse human relationships and professional settings, reinforcing lessons in humility and teamwork. These families' roles highlight generational and occupational contrasts that aid Comet's cultural acclimation without overt intervention. Antagonists from Beta Star, including the authoritative Star Principal who initially exiles Comet and enforcers like Betan, represent the external pressure to return her to her home planet, pursuing her intermittently to enforce compliance with interstellar rules. These figures embody the rigid hierarchy of Comet's origin world, contrasting sharply with Earth's forgiving social fabric and compelling her to defend her progress in . Their interventions underscore the series' theme of balancing alien heritage with newfound human values.

1978–1979 series

In the 1978–1979 live-action adaptation of Princess Comet, the titular character Comet is portrayed by Japanese idol and actress Kumiko Ohba. Comet is depicted as a refined young princess from the Virgo constellation (乙女座), dispatched to Earth as part of her stellar school's graduation examination to discover "the most beautiful thing" in the world, drawing inspiration from human aesthetics and emotions. She assumes the role of a live-in housekeeper at the Sawano family's music classroom, where she subtly employs her magic baton to assist those in need, emphasizing themes of beauty through interpersonal connections and artistic expression rather than overt mischief. This portrayal highlights Comet's character development, as her quest evolves from a simplistic search for visual splendor to a deeper appreciation of emotional and creative bonds, often explored through music, painting, and daily human rituals. The supporting human characters center on the Sawano family, who provide Comet with a grounded earthly environment that embodies diverse ideals of beauty. The family patriarch, Sawano Kōhei, played by Kiyoshi Igarashi (五十嵐喜芳), runs a local music school and represents disciplined artistic harmony through his teaching and family leadership. His wife, Sawano Sawako, portrayed by Junko Maya (真屋順子), embodies nurturing elegance and emotional warmth, often facilitating Comet's integration into domestic life while showcasing beauty in familial support. Their son, Sawano Junpei, acted by Kazutaka Nishikawa (西川和孝), is a lively schoolboy whose youthful curiosity and school experiences introduce Comet to playful, innocent perspectives on aesthetics, contrasting more mature ideals. Comet's school friends further diversify the exploration of beauty ideals, serving as peers who inspire her through varied personal expressions. Hanamura Yōko, played by Midori Kiuchi (木内みどり), is a close classmate who shares artistic hobbies like and , helping Comet navigate earthly and self-discovery. Other friends, such as Chii (Chie Yamaguchi), contribute to that highlight collective joy and individuality, reinforcing the series' focus on beauty as multifaceted and relational rather than singular. The adaptation innovates with practical live-action effects for Comet's spells, forgoing the puppet animation of prior versions to prioritize character-driven narratives centered on artistic and emotional pursuits.

2001 anime series

Princess Comet, voiced by , serves as the protagonist, an energetic 12-year-old princess from Harmonica Star dispatched to to locate the missing prince of Tambourine Star, whose identity is marked by eyes that sparkle like . Her baton, powered by star energy and paired with a containing the Rubba Ball, enables magical abilities central to her quest, evolving from initial naivety about terrestrial life to greater decisiveness as she adapts and matures through interpersonal challenges. Maeda's infuses Comet with a cheerful, curious tone that highlights her emotional range, from wide-eyed wonder to resolute determination. The character's design merges classic motifs—such as her transformation sequences and whimsical accessories—with space opera flair, featuring cosmic motifs like star clips in her pink curled hair and outfits evoking interstellar royalty. Comet's key allies bolster her efforts in the prince-finding mission, starting with Rubabou, her loyal fairy assistant depicted as a small, puppy-like creature from the star world, complete with a star-tipped tail. Voiced by , Rubabou provides practical aid and , often assisting in magical tasks or scouting clues, while its adorable, balloon-esque design underscores the series' blend of whimsy and cosmic adventure. The Fujiyoshi family further anchors Comet emotionally, acting as her adoptive hosts who offer warmth and stability amid her extraterrestrial trials. Comprising father Keitarō (voiced by Jin Yamanoi), mother Sayaka (voiced by ), and fraternal twins Tsuyoshi (voiced by Kurumi Mamiya) and Nene (voiced by ), the family integrates Comet into daily life; the playful twins, in particular, form a sibling-like bond, confiding in her magic and providing joyful support that helps her navigate homesickness and isolation. Opposing Comet is her primary rival, Princess Meteor, voiced by Chieko Honda, the scheming princess of Castanet Star driven by jealousy to claim the prince for herself. Meteor's personality is brash and antagonistic, characterized by loud outbursts, selfish demands, and princess-like tantrums that contrast Comet's composure, often leading her to spy on Comet's leads rather than conduct an independent search. Though primarily obstructive, her unwilling interventions occasionally advance the narrative, adding tension to the royal pursuit. Honda's performance amplifies Meteor's rude, volatile edge with nuanced hints of underlying vulnerability. Meteor's visual design echoes rivalry tropes—vibrant blue-green hair and elaborate gowns—infused with antagonism, positioning her as a cosmic foil to Comet's heroism.

Media adaptations

Manga

The manga adaptation of Princess Comet, titled Comet-san (コメットさん), was created and illustrated by and serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Margaret magazine from June 10, 1967 (issue 28), to November 11, 1967 (issue 50). This run consisted of 23 chapters, presented in black-and-white format typical of of the era, and served as a promotional to the concurrent live-action series. The story closely mirrored the plot of the 1967–1968 television series, condensing its fantastical narrative into a print format that highlighted Princess Comet's magical transformations and her adventures learning about Earth customs. Yokoyama's illustrations emphasized the whimsical and educational elements, such as Comet's use of her cosmic baton for spells and her interactions with human characters, while adapting the episodic structure to fit the magazine's weekly installments. Unlike the live-action show, which included dynamic performances and , the focused on static panels to convey the magical antics, resulting in a more streamlined retelling without animated sequences or extended dialogue. This serialization is recognized as one of the earliest directly linked to a live-action , predating many subsequent works in the genre and building on Yokoyama's prior success with . A complete edition of the original was later published by in their Manga Bunko series, preserving the full narrative for later audiences.

Live-action television series (1967–1968)

The live-action television series adaptation of Princess Comet, known in Japanese as Kometto-san, was produced by International Television Films and broadcast on Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) from July 3, 1967, to December 30, 1968, spanning 79 episodes each approximately 30 minutes in length. The series initially aired in black-and-white for the first 19 episodes, transitioning to color production starting with episode 20 on November 13, 1967, which marked a significant technical advancement for Japanese television dramas at the time. This shift to color not only improved visual appeal but also aligned with the growing adoption of color broadcasting in Japan during the late 1960s. Directed primarily by Yoshikazu Ōtsuki, with contributions from other directors such as Nagahisa Yoshikazu and Tomoo Deguchi, the production emphasized innovative to depict magical transformations and sequences. The screenplay was crafted by Mamoru Sasaki as the primary writer, alongside a team including Ichimori Ichikawa and Susumu Ōsugi, focusing on episodic storytelling suitable for family viewing. Music composition transitioned midway, with Yūzō Tōsaka handling episodes 1–48 and for episodes 49–79, complementing the series' whimsical tone. These elements made it a trailblazing effort in live-action fantasy, utilizing early synthesis techniques for magical effects to create an engaging spectacle. Aimed specifically at , the series is recognized as one of the earliest live-action productions in , with its color episodes from the outset of full production enhancing the vibrant portrayal of Comet's powers. Yumiko Kokonoe starred in the titular role of Comet, bringing a charismatic presence that contributed to the show's popularity and her own receipt of the 5th Galaxy Award for her performance. No official international dubs or adaptations of this specific series have been documented in primary production records.

Live-action television series (1978–1979)

The second live-action television series adaptation of Princess Comet, known in Japanese as Comet-san, aired on Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) from June 12, 1978, to September 24, 1979, comprising 68 episodes each approximately 30 minutes in length. Unlike the original 1967–1968 series, this revival was produced entirely in color, incorporating advanced and hybrid elements blending live-action footage with animated magical sequences to enhance the fantastical aspects of the story. The production was handled by International Television Films, Inc., reflecting the technological advancements in Japanese television during the late . Directed primarily by Noriaki Yuasa and Yoshiharu Tomita, the series built upon the foundational narrative of the original while emphasizing themes of beauty and self-discovery, aligning with evolving trends in the magical girl genre that had gained significant popularity through preceding works like Cutie Honey and Majokko Megu-chan. Yuasa, renowned for his special effects work on tokusatsu series such as Ultraman, contributed to improved visual effects, including more dynamic transformations and interstellar scenes that showcased enhanced practical and optical techniques available in the era. The lead role of Comet was portrayed by actress Kumiko Ohba, who was represented by Office Keiko, adding a fresh interpretation to the character's ethereal and transformative persona. Music for the series was composed by Masaaki Hirao, with theme songs such as the opening "Kira Kira Boshi Ageru" underscoring the blend of whimsy and wonder. This revival maintained continuity with the original by retaining core elements like Comet's mission from the stars but updated the production to appeal to a contemporary audience amid the booming interest in fantasy programming. No major international broadcasts or adaptations of this specific series have been documented, keeping its reach primarily within .

Anime series (2001)

The 2001 anime adaptation, titled Cosmic Baton Girl Princess Comet (also known internationally as Princess Comet or Cosmic Baton Girl Comet-san), was produced by as a television series in the genre. Directed by Mamoru Kanbe, it features series composition by Akira Okeya and music composed by , with each of the 43 episodes running approximately 24 minutes. The production aired from April 1, 2001, to January 27, 2002, primarily on and in . This series adheres to the conventional animation style of the era, characterized by vibrant visuals, transformation sequences, and fantastical elements integrated into everyday settings. Its episode structure emphasizes self-contained, episodic stories focused on problem-solving and personal growth, unified by a broader progression across the season. Internationally, the broadcast on networks such as and Animax Asia, with dubs in regions including and ; in , it aired as Señorita Cometa, contributing to its regional appeal. As of 2025, no official releases or licensed streaming options in English have been produced, limiting accessibility primarily to fan-subtitled versions.

References

  1. https://mangadex.org/title/651a95ce-5716-4a6f-8583-45c37e439f62/comet-san
  2. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=1195
  3. https://yokoyama-mitsuteru.com/database/user/Search.php?main_table_no=4&template_name=visual_details.html&m_prk=11&search_type_m_prk=3
  4. http://www.tvdrama-db.com/drama_info/p/id-10376
  5. https://cosmic-baton-girl-cometsan.fandom.com/wiki/Comet-san_(Live-Action)
  6. http://animenomori.sblo.jp/article/44516126.html
  7. https://plaza.rakuten.co.jp/jyoudankeri/diary/201005210000/
  8. http://blog.livedoor.jp/televimanga/archives/51752073.html
  9. https://www.allcinema.net/cinema/85616
  10. https://www.tc-ent.co.jp/products/detail/BFTD-0237
  11. https://video.unext.jp/title/SID0067859
  12. https://m.douban.com/movie/subject/5289060/
  13. https://eiga.com/drama/series/comettosan_1978/
  14. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/246157?language=en-US
  15. https://filmarks.com/dramas/10135/14210
  16. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1710293/fullcredits
  17. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7H2yz8nAhQc
  18. https://ogiuemaniax.com/2008/09/17/it-truly-is-a-smile-for-you-cosmic-baton-girl-comet-san/
  19. https://cosmic-baton-girl-cometsan.fandom.com/wiki/Comet
  20. https://www.deviantart.com/takostu64/art/Cosmic-Baton-Girl-Comet-San-2001-2002-Review-967426003
  21. https://myanimelist.net/character/31223/Princess_Meteor
  22. https://cosmic-baton-girl-cometsan.fandom.com/wiki/Meteor
  23. https://www.weblio.jp/content/%25E3%2582%25B3%25E3%2583%25A1%25E3%2583%2583%25E3%2583%2588%25E3%2581%2595%25E3%2582%2593
  24. https://www.kodansha.co.jp/book/products/0000042602
  25. https://www.amazon.co.jp/%25E3%2582%25B3%25E3%2583%25A1%25E3%2583%2583%25E3%2583%2588%25E3%2581%2595%25E3%2582%2593-%25E6%25A8%25AA%25E5%25B1%25B1-%25E5%2585%2589%25E8%25BC%259D/dp/406364622X
  26. https://www.bpcj.or.jp/program/detail/000591/
  27. https://www.allcinema.net/cinema/85615
  28. https://mydramalist.com/728899-comet-san-2
  29. https://cosmic-baton-girl-cometsan.fandom.com/wiki/Comet-san_%28Live-Action%29
  30. https://amass.jp/20352/
  31. https://tvdrama-db.com/drama_info/p/id-16537
  32. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1710293/
  33. https://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/42182/where-can-i-watch-all-43-episodes-of-princess-comet
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