The final episodes of the acclaimed Japanese crime drama "Aibu season 23" are set to air on March 5 and 12, 2025, featuring several notable guest stars. The series, which has captivated viewers for over two decades, will present its two-part finale titled "Monster and Holy Sword" on TV Tokyo, bringing back familiar faces alongside new actors making their debut.
Guest stars for the finale include every-kuma Katsuya, Katagiri Jin, Hirayama Yusuke, and Aiki Reika, all appearing for the first time on the show. Each guest brings unique characters to the season's climactic story, which is centered around a series of troubling home invasion crimes connected to the rising threat of anonymous criminal groups.
Every-kuma, playing the mysterious character Urakami Shinroku, encounters the show's lead character, Sugisaki Ukyou (played by Mizutani Yu), as part of the storyline's central conflict. Katagiri portrays Ichio Kou, the ambitious governor of Tokyo, and Hirayama plays Kihara Kenji, a sinister figure intertwined with the crime plot. Meanwhile, Aiki takes on the role of Hashimoto Rinko, who faces personal tragedy linked to the criminal incidents.
Each actor expressed both excitement and pressure at joining such a beloved series. Every-kuma shared his feelings about the opportunity, stating: "I feel honored to be offered this role. It’s wonderful to be part of such a cherished drama. I hope to portray Urakami Shinroku as both intriguing and layers deep with potential for surprise," highlighting the character's complex motivations.
Katagiri, reflecting on his role as the brave yet controversial governor, remarked, "I was shocked to play the governor role as I had always hoped to participate someday. I felt the weight of this impactful character, hoping it might provoke thoughts about real-life leaders and how they relate to people’s lives."
Hirayama, also thrilled about his involvement, claimed, "Being cast after so many seasons feels like recognition of my efforts as an actor. I resonate deeply with the story's themes, as they reflect contemporary societal issues. My character, Kihara, embodies both humor and danger, presenting challenges to the protagonists."
Aiki, perhaps the most heartfelt of the group, described her history with 'Aibu,' saying, "Watching the show since I was young made this opportunity feel surreal. I have admired characters like Ukyou for years, and now I get to interact with them! The story resonates with current societal issues, making it feel especially relevant today," adding how important the narrative's exploration of crime and morality is for today's viewers.
The storyline unveils the genesis of extended police investigations aimed at tackling the influx of anonymous crime groups operating within the city. Having been responsible for multiple robberies, the situation pushes the special investigation team led by Ukyou and his partner, Kameyama Kaoru (played by Terawaki Yasufumi), to intensify efforts to protect citizens and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Notably, the series finale will also reintroduce familiar faces, such as Deputy Chief Kinugasa Fujiharu (played by Sugimoto Tetta) and Chief of the Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office, Aya Mimiko (played by Nakamura Yuki), ensuring elements consistency and continuity of plot within the beloved franchise. Further, the finale will witness the return of the former prosecutor turned journalist, Kurozaki Kenta (played by Uchida Yuya), adding layers of intrigue to the plot.
"Aibu season 23" is celebrated not only for its gripping police plotlines but also for its exploration of moral dilemmas and societal issues. The finale promises to deepen these themes, with Aiki emphasizing, "This story contains powerful messages relevant to modern-day Japan, making it more than just entertainment. It is thought-provoking, and I encourage everyone to experience it firsthand.”
With high anticipation building among fans, the two-part finale aims not just to resolve the criminal intrigue of this season but also to deliver impactful commentary through its narratives. Each guest star's unique contribution is sure to enrich the theatrical experience of the series' closure, promising audiences drama, excitement, and empathy as they await the final chapters of "Aibu season 23."