
Ai Mizuno
Ai Mizuno |
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Kanji | 水野 愛 |
Rōmaji | Mizuno Ai |
Age: | 16 (As of 2008 onwards) |
Birthday: | March 7, 1992 |
Height: | 160 cm (5’3″) |
Voice Actor | |
Japanese | Risa Taneda |
English | Bryn Apprill |
Ai Mizuno (水野 愛, Mizuno Ai), is a former nationally famous idol who served as the lead singer of Iron Frill, one of the most influential idol groups in Japan during the Heisei era. After her tragic death during a concert, she was resurrected as a zombie and became a member of Franchouchou, where she now performs as “The Legendary Heisei Idol” (伝説の平成アイドル, Densetsu no Heisei Aidoru).
Background

Appearance in anime
Ai Mizuno was born during the Heisei era and quickly rose to national stardom as the lead vocalist and center of Iron Frill, Japan’s top idol group. She was admired by fans and fellow idols alike for her incredible stage presence, powerful singing voice, and natural charisma.
At the height of her career, Ai’s life was tragically cut short when she was struck by lightning during a live performance, leading to her untimely death. Years later, she was resurrected as a zombie by Kotaro Tatsumi, who recruited her into Franchouchou in hopes of bringing her talent and experience to the new group.
Appearance
Ai has short, golden blonde hair that frames her face, with a side part and slightly wavy locks. Her vibrant purple eyes reflect her confidence and experience as a former top idol. As a zombie, she has paler skin and occasionally exposed stitches, though her makeup during performances conceals most of her undead traits.
Her Franchouchou idol outfit often incorporates elements of her previous Iron Frill style, blending a modern idol aesthetic with a slightly more refined and professional look compared to her fellow zombies.
Personality
Ai Mizuno is confident, level-headed, and highly disciplined, embodying the ideal image of a professional idol. She takes her work seriously and expects the same level of dedication and effort from those around her. Ai values professionalism and hard work, often acting as a mentor to her fellow Franchouchou members, guiding them with tough love and constructive criticism.
Despite her serious nature, Ai is not cold or unkind. She has a deep love for performing and genuinely wants to see her teammates improve. While she initially struggles with accepting her new undead existence, she gradually embraces Franchouchou and its unique approach to idol culture, developing strong bonds with her new team.
Role in the Story
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Struggles with Being a Zombie Idol
When Ai first regains consciousness as a zombie, she is shocked and resistant to the idea of performing again, especially as part of a group that lacks the polish and experience of Iron Frill. However, over time, she begins to see potential in Franchouchou, even though their style is vastly different from the traditional idol path she once followed. -
Becoming a Mentor to Franchouchou
Ai takes on a mentorship role, particularly guiding Sakura Minamoto, who admires her deeply. She often pushes the group to improve their performances, using her past experience as a top-tier idol to help Franchouchou develop their skills and stage presence. -
Confronting Iron Frill
One of Ai’s most pivotal moments comes when she faces her former group, Iron Frill, which has continued to thrive without her. When their new center, Shiori, criticizes Franchouchou for being an amateur idol group, Ai is forced to reassess her identity as an idol. Rather than returning to Iron Frill, Ai ultimately chooses to remain with Franchouchou, realizing that being an idol isn’t just about perfection it’s about passion and making an impact. -
Franchouchou’s Rise to Fame
Ai is instrumental in Franchouchou’s growth, helping them fine-tune their performances and build a more structured approach to their idol activities. Her leadership and previous industry experience play a key role in elevating the group’s reputation, leading them to bigger opportunities.
Relationships
Sakura Minamoto
Sakura greatly admires Ai, having been a fan of Iron Frill before her death. Ai sees potential in Sakura, though she can sometimes be frustrated by her self-doubt. Over time, she grows into a mentor-like figure, supporting Sakura as she finds her own voice as an idol.
Saki Nikaido
Saki and Ai have clashing leadership styles while Ai is disciplined and structured, Saki is wild and spontaneous. Despite their differences, they develop mutual respect, with Ai appreciating Saki’s unwavering passion and confidence.
Junko Konno
Ai and Junko share a unique bond, as both are former idols from different time periods. Junko initially struggles with modern idol culture, but Ai helps her understand the evolving industry and embrace new performance styles. In return, Junko helps Ai open up emotionally.
Kotaro Tatsumi
Ai often challenges Kotaro’s eccentric management style, finding his chaotic approach frustrating. However, she ultimately respects his dedication to Franchouchou and begins to trust his vision for the group.
Shiori (Iron Frill’s New Center)
Shiori is Ai’s successor in Iron Frill, and their meeting sparks an emotional turning point for Ai. While Shiori initially looks down on Franchouchou, Ai proves that being an idol is about more than just polish and perfection, making a definitive choice to stay with her new group.