Candy Candy

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Candy Candy is a Japanese manga and anime series that has garnered a significant following around the world. The story is set in the early 20th century and revolves around an orphan girl named Candice "Candy" White Ardlay. The series explores themes of love, hope, and the challenges of growing up. It was first published in 1975 in the magazine Nakayoshi, created by writer Kyoko Mizuki and artist Yumiko Igarashi. Candy Candy has been adapted into an anime series, novels, and even a musical, making it a significant part of the Japanese pop culture landscape.

Plot

The narrative of Candy Candy follows the life of Candy, who grows up in an orphanage in the United States. Her life takes numerous turns as she meets friends, foes, and two significant love interests - Anthony Brown and Terry Grandchester. The story is a rollercoaster of emotions, depicting Candy's journey from a cheerful orphan to a mature and compassionate young woman. Her adventures, misfortunes, and the relationships she forms along the way constitute the core of the story.

Characters

• Candice "Candy" White Ardlay: The protagonist, known for her optimistic attitude and kind heart.
• Anthony Brown: Candy's first love, who shares a deep connection with her but meets a tragic fate.
• Terry Grandchester: A rebellious and talented actor, who becomes Candy's second love interest.
• Annie Brighton: Candy's best friend from the orphanage, who later gets adopted.
• Miss Pony and Sister Mary: The caretakers of the orphanage, who provide guidance and support to Candy.

Media

Manga

The Candy Candy manga was serialized in Nakayoshi from 1975 to 1979. It was collected into nine volumes, which were later reprinted due to its popularity. The manga is noted for its detailed artwork and emotional storytelling.

Anime

The anime adaptation of Candy Candy aired from 1976 to 1979, spanning 115 episodes. It closely follows the manga's storyline, bringing the characters and their adventures to life. The anime was particularly popular in Japan and several other countries, including Italy, France, and Latin America.

Novels

Kyoko Mizuki also adapted the story into a series of novels, providing a deeper insight into the characters' thoughts and backgrounds.

Themes

Candy Candy explores various themes, including love, loss, resilience, and the search for happiness. The series is a coming-of-age story that resonates with audiences due to its emotional depth and the universal challenges it portrays.

Legacy

The series has left a lasting impact on the genre of shojo manga (manga aimed at young girls) and continues to be celebrated for its storytelling and character development. Despite legal disputes between the author and the artist over copyright issues, Candy Candy remains a beloved classic in manga and anime history.

Controversies

The series has been subject to copyright disputes between Kyoko Mizuki and Yumiko Igarashi, which have affected the re-release and distribution of the manga and anime outside Japan. These legal battles have also hindered the production of new Candy Candy merchandise and adaptations.