Viewers of the Netflix show are wondering if the Lupin TV show is based on the “Lupin the Third” anime and manga series. Here’s an explanation of the link between them.
Is the Lupin Netflix TV show based on the anime?
No, the Lupin Netflix TV show is not based on Lupin the Third anime or manga. However, they do share a connection.
Even though the live-action series shares a similar title to the Japanese anime and manga, it’s not inspired by them. However, there is a connection between Netflix’s Lupin and Lupin the Third, which comes through the infamous gentleman thief, Arsène Lupin.
As the title of the anime suggests, it follows the grandson of Arsène Lupin, the leading character in Maurice Leblanc’s novels. Its manga was created by artist Kazuhiko Katō in 1967, and the anime itself came out in 1971.
Meanwhile, Netflix’s live-action French series features Assane Diop as its lead. He grew up reading Leblanc’s novels and considered the hat-wearing thief his idol.
Is the Lupin live-action show different from the anime?
Yes, the live-action Lupin series differs greatly from the anime and manga, Lupin the Third.
Created by George Kay and François Uzan, the live-action French series follows Assane Diop, who has no biological or familial relations with Arsène Lupin. Diop is just a big fan of the thief and gets inspired by his craft while trying to pull off his own heists across Paris in a mystery thriller setup.
Meanwhile, the 1971 anime showcases Lupin’s grandson, Lupin III, as an internationally wanted thief. He goes on globetrotting heists and comedic adventures teaming up with other outlaws. Overall, the narratives of the two projects are very different.
For more Lupin updates, here’s an explanation of its season 3 ending. Also, find out the total episodes of season 3.
