On March 3, 2025, NHK announced its upcoming Taiga drama for 2027, titled Gyakuzoku no Tenno (逆賊の幕臣), which translates to "The Traitor's Retainer". The series will feature actor Matsuzaka Tori (36) as the lead character, Oguri Tadamasa, who is often termed the rival of Katsu Kaishu. This portrayal delves deeply not only purely historical events but also personal narratives, reflecting the life of Tadamasa, who was pivotal during the tumultuous late Edo period.
The drama offers viewers the unique perspective of the shogunate's retainers or "losers" of the era, presenting the backdrop of Japan's historic transition. Tadamasa, dubbed as Japan's first envoy to the United States, experienced western civilization firsthand and was influential in shaping the new order of modern Japan. Despite his accomplishments, Tadamasa was later marked as a "traitor" by the new Meiji government, leading to his eventual obscurity.
During the announcement, Matsuzaka expressed his disbelief at being cast as the lead, stating, "I never imagined I would have the opportunity to star as the lead in this Taiga drama. I was genuinely surprised when I received the offer." He openly admitted his initial reservations about taking on such a significant role but expressed eagerness to collaborate with producer Katsuda Natsuko and scriptwriter Adachi Naoko, believing their collective effort would create something worthwhile.
Adachi, known for her work on NHK's Okkaeri Mone and Kino Nani Tabeteiru, noted the honor of portraying the late Edo period through such an esteemed project. She articulated her desire to explore history and politics through Tadamasa’s unique lens, saying, "I want to depict the history and politics of the period accurately and earnestly. I look forward to presenting the history from the viewpoint of Tadamasa, who is both brilliant and charming." Adachi emphasized the importance of shedding light on Tadamasa's story, insisting on the need to understand why he, considered so impactful, remains relatively unknown today.
Oguri Tadamasa was born in 1827, to the distinguished Tokugawa family. He is celebrated for his contributions to Japan's modernization efforts, and his name even surfaces within the legends of the Tokugawa's hidden treasures. Notably, during the Russo-Japanese War, Admiral Togo Heihachiro credited Tadamasa's contributions to Japan's naval success, reflecting the respect his character garnered even posthumously.
Matsuzaka acknowledged his limited knowledge of Tadamasa beforehand, stating, "I was embarrassed to realize I had never encountered his name even when studying history. The more I learn about him, the more compelling he becomes; I am eager to portray him after thoroughly researching his life." Adachi reinforced this sentiment, stating, "I was struck by how little we know about someone who single-handedly supported the late Edo period. I want us to think together about why we did not know about him."
Producer Katsuda reiterated the narrative arc of Tadamasa – aiming to clarify why he instilled fear within the new Meiji government. She described him as exceptionally intelligent, albeit flawed, often lacking social awareness at times, which added layers to his character's complexity. The series will also showcase how he managed the effective operations during the shogunate era, which hold echoes of modern practices. The producers aim to start filming in the summer of 2026, leading to the drama's premiere on NHK, slated for January 2027.
This year is particularly significant as it marks the 200th anniversary of Tadamasa's birth, enhancing the series' importance. The production is set to be led by renowned director Nishimura Takugoro, who has worked on several acclaimed projects before. The dramatic portrayals are expected to present the harsh realities faced by retainers during the fall of the shogunate, providing audiences with new insights about the conflicts and challenges of the late Edo period.
Adachi hopes the drama will not only entertain but also evoke feelings of reflection about societal changes, likening contemporary events to those of the late Edo period – divining parallels between eras of conflict. She reveals her aim is to not just narrate history but to prompt audiences to engage with its lessons and legacies.
Indeed, with Matsuzaka and Adachi on board, Gyakuzoku no Tenno looks set to tantalize viewers with both historical intrigue and the emotional turmoil of its characters, inviting them to witness the complex interplay between loyalty, ambition, and the notion of betrayal during one of Japan's most dynamic eras.