[Spoiler Review] Oshi no Ko Season 3 Episode 26 (Season 3 Episode 2) "Calculation"

Aired January 21, 2026. Building on "Devotion" from last week, this episode saw Ruby's "transformation" drive the story forward in a major way.

Overall Impressions: 24 Minutes of Trembling as Ruby's Star Turns Black

Looking back at the title "Calculation" after watching, it carries tremendous weight. Ruby, who until now was the embodiment of innocent "light," has chosen the "dark" methods needed to survive in the battlefield of the entertainment industry. Many viewers must have felt chills at her metamorphosis.

The visual direction deserves special mention. The animation of the moment when the star in Ruby's eyes glows cold and sharp with a black light conveyed the steel of her resolve. Additionally, the transition into Natori's ending theme "Serenade" was exquisite, perfectly enhancing the unsettling yet beautiful afterglow of the story.

On the production side, the psychological nuances of the source material continue to be carefully adapted, with particularly masterful direction in the scenes where "adult calculation" and "childish obsession" collide.

Episode 26

At the heart of the episode was Ruby's conduct on the internet show "Dig Deep! One Chance." The provocative staging and cold-blooded moves to "carry" the show would have flustered the old Ruby. Using her co-stars as stepping stones -- her demeanor was proof that she's now tackling the rough seas of the entertainment world with "calculation."

Behind this rapid growth -- or rather, "transformation" -- was none other than former Ichigo Productions president Ichigo Saitou.

• What did this man, who had been living in retirement fishing, whisper to Ruby?
• A relationship beyond "master and student," united by the shared purpose of revenge -- a partnership in crime
• Ruby's independent path, set in motion without even Aqua's knowledge

As these truths came to light, it was impossible not to feel a sense of "wanting to cheer her on, yet feeling the loneliness of watching her drift somewhere far away." Meanwhile, in the scenes between Aqua and Akane, their relationship seems to be deepening, but even there, each other's "motives" and "calculations" show through -- which is what makes this series so heartbreakingly compelling.

Is Ruby reaching for the view that Ai once saw, or for the throat of the person who took Ai away? What she's thinking behind that smile -- every move she makes demands our undivided attention.

Next Episode Preview

How will Ruby's transformation affect the other members of B-Komachi, and how will Aqua confront his sister's disturbing changes? It feels like the footsteps toward Miyazaki are drawing closer!