The Way of the Househusband
A high-octane domestic comedy where a former underworld legend wields a spatula like a katana, blending yakuza-grade intensity with the heartwarming serenity of a quiet suburban kitchen.
The Way of the Househusband
The Way of the Househusband

極主夫道

08 April 2021 — 01 January 2023 Japan 2 season 15 episode Ended ⭐ 8.4 (474)
Cast: Kenjiro Tsuda, Shizuka Itoh, Kazuyuki Okitsu, Mao Ichimichi, Yoshimasa Hosoya
Animation Comedy
Subversion of Masculinity The Dignity of Labor Social Reintegration and Redemption Perspective and Misunderstanding

The Way of the Househusband - Episode Highlights

Episode Highlights

Season 1, Episode 1

S1E1

The premiere establishes the visual and tonal language of the show. Tatsu prepares an incredibly intricate bento box for Miku, treating the ingredients like precious contraband, and has a terrifying encounter with a Roomba.

Significance:

Introduces the central irony of the show and sets the stage for Tatsu's new life.

Season 1, Episode 3

S1E3

Tatsu joins a neighborhood cooking class. His intense knife skills and yakuza jargon petrify the teacher and other housewives until they realize his sincere passion for the craft.

Significance:

Shows Tatsu’s first major integration into the community and his willingness to learn from civilians.

Season 1, Episode 5

S1E5

The episode focuses on Miku's birthday. Tatsu goes to extreme lengths to buy her a specific toy from her favorite anime series, Policure, leading to a high-stakes auction battle.

Significance:

Highlights Tatsu's complete devotion to Miku and reveals her secret passion for magical girl anime.

Season 2, Episode 1

S2E1

Tatsu faces off against a typhoon to protect his home and the neighborhood. He also engages in a "battle" with a child over a playground game.

Significance:

Expands the scope of Tatsu's domestic duties to neighborhood protection, emphasizing his role as a guardian.

Season 2, Episode 5

S2E5

In the series finale, Tatsu's past and present collide as he helps organize a community event that requires all his tactical and domestic skills. The episode ends on a quiet, domestic note that reinforces his commitment.

Significance:

Provides a sense of finality to his transition, showing that he is no longer a yakuza living as a husband, but truly a househusband through and into his soul.