The 8th episode of the drama series Succession Detective, aired on March 15, 2025, has unveiled complex layers within the story and the main character, Haiji Nanase. Portrayed by Akaso Eiji, Haiji is depicted as both an inheritance detective and man battling shadows from his past.
The episode pivots around the unresolved mystery concerning the late Professor Ryonouchi Harutaka (played by Sano Shiro). After discovering the existence of seven hidden children, Haiji focuses his attention on the allegations, working tirelessly to redeem the professor's name from the accusations swirling around him.
During this investigative mission, Haiji meets Shimada Masaki (Kobayashi Toranosuke), who arrives at Haiji's office with shocking news: his late mother once revealed to him the identity of his father as Professor Ryonouchi, possibly making him the 8th hidden child. Haiji, intrigued yet skeptical, decides to dig deep.
Shimada’s story carries weight, yet evidence remains thin; he holds only precious little—a photo depicting his mother during her time as a golf caddie next to the professor. Concerned, Haiji's colleagues Miyo Reiko (played by Machida Keita) and Hidetatsu (played by Yazumoto) question the authenticity of Masaki's claims, viewing his visit through the lens of potential fraud driven by inheritance greed.
Despite doubts, Haiji's instincts drive him to conduct DNA testing. The results display compelling evidence favoring the idea of Masaki being Ryonouchi's biological son. Further investigations reveal troubling signs, with Ryonouchi linked as the guarantor on Masaki’s family home loan, showcasing the depth of their relationship.
With new revelations, Masaki grapples with his identity: "What should I do?" he implodes, torn between wanting recognition and fearing the media storm his claims might attract. On the other side, Haiji provides him with two paths: to file for posthumous acknowledgment or take settlement money without ever going public.
At the same time, the shadow of Hagemaru Daigo (Miura Takahiro), the persistent tabloid reporter, lingers. Hagemaru is on the hunt for the inside scoop and uncovers Haiji’s connection to Masaki, leading to confrontations steeped with heated emotions. Haiji rebukes Hagemaru, exclaiming, "Is your journalism all about preying on the weak?" This moment highlights Haiji's internal battle and sets the tempo for upcoming conflicts.
While the 8th episode revives Haiji's relentless pursuit for justice, it also intricately weaves his own complicated history, culminating reignited tensions surrounding his family. A community built on tragedy influences the struggle for recognition and the ultimate quest to clear family names.
The past rears its head when Haiji's background is brought to light; his real father, the infamous Jidori Kengo (played by Kato Masaya), becomes the chilling focal point. Jidori, who 18 years ago framed Haiji’s late adoptive father for negligence during a tragic bus accident, now stands as Haiji’s adversary. Will Haiji finally come face to face with his birthright's adversities and redeem his father's legacy?
The episode concludes with Haiji on the brink of exposing Jidori’s treacherous history, setting the stage for the next episode. The dramatic tension piques as Haiji and Masaki prepare to confront not only societal scrutiny but also family legacies obscured by secrets and lies.
Fans eagerly anticipate the continuation of this gripping human mystery when the 9th episode airs on March 22, 2025. Viewers can expect original storylines crafted by the manga’s author, Nishiogi Yumi, breathing new life and insights back to the core of policy and personal tragedies. With twists yet to come, the fate of Haiji and Masaki hangs above, pondering deeply – how does one confront the sins of their parents?