The second and third stages of Steel Ball Run: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure arrived on Netflix on September 25, 2026, marking the long-awaited continuation of the franchise’s seventh story arc. The series has shifted to a traditional weekly release format, with 11 episodes scheduled to air.
Produced by David Production and Warner Bros. Japan, Steel Ball Run serves as the sixth season of the anime adaptation. The story follows a grueling 1890s horse race across the United States, stretching from San Diego to New York City. The narrative centers on Johnny Joestar (voiced by Shogo Sakata), a former star jockey who has lost the use of his legs, and Gyro Zeppeli (voiced by Yohei Azakami), a mysterious racer utilizing a specialized “Spin” technique.
The second and third stages are widely regarded by readers of the original manga as the point where the series fully embraces its supernatural identity.
The soundtrack for this batch of episodes features the opening theme “SPIN” by the band Kroi. However, the ending theme, “Shinukaikiruka” (Dead or Alive) by Yuki Chiba, has drawn significant attention. While the track matches the high-energy aesthetic of the series, the production involvement of Dr. Luke has sparked reported criticism among portions of the fanbase.
For those tracking the release schedule, the current batch of 11 episodes is expected to cover the desert-heavy stages of the race. The move to weekly episodes allows for a more granular adaptation of the manga’s complex tactical battles.
Stream It or Skip It?
The consensus among fans and early viewers suggests Steel Ball Run is a definitive Stream It. The transition to the weekly format better suits the pacing of the 2nd and 3rd Stages, which involve dense strategy. These new episodes provide the necessary context and action that define the series’ reputation as one of the franchise’s most sophisticated arcs. Under the direction of David Production, the animation maintains the high standard set by previous parts, effectively capturing the grit of the American frontier.
