As anticipation builds for the debut of the new television drama "Tokyo Holiday," fans are eager to see how the production pays homage to the classic film "Roman Holiday." Starring popular Thai actor Gulf Kanawut, known colloquially as the "Prince of Smiles," and actress Fumika Baba, the story follows a national icon who finds himself at a crossroads of love and discovery in a foreign land.
"Tokyo Holiday" is set to premiere on April 3, 2025, on TV Tokyo, airing weekly on Thursdays at 24:30. This series tells the heartfelt story of a Thai actor named Atit, played by Gulf, who feels overwhelmed by his busy work schedule and starts to lose sight of what truly matters in life. Feeling weary, he secretly sneaks out of his hotel in Tokyo and explores the vibrant streets of the city.
Atit’s journey leads him to Sakurako Ishida, portrayed by Fumika Baba, a woman working at the traditional sweets shop "Tokiwa." Once ambitious in her youth, Sakurako finds herself, at the age of 30, watching her dreams slip away while taking care of her father's business. Their encounter ignites a spark, marking the beginning of a poignant love story about rediscovering happiness and the important things in life.
The central theme echoes the romantic justice of “Roman Holiday,” where two individuals, both yearning for freedom yet trapped by their circumstances, meet and fall in love. The main visual for the series perfectly captures this sentiment, featuring Gulf and Fumika riding a bike through Tokyo, embodying the modern-day spirit of adventure and romance.
To enhance the emotional landscape of the drama, TikTok sensation Hikari Hina will lend her voice to the insert song titled "Kanaria." Hina, a dynamic 21-year-old with over 1.3 million followers on the platform, expressed her excitement about the project, stating, "This song is very beautiful and delicate, yet it encompasses a sense of strength. Singing a song like this for the first time was exhilarating!" Her involvement marks a significant milestone as it is her first time contributing to a drama as an insert song artist.
Moreover, the distribution of the series is not limited to Japan. Following its premiere, "Tokyo Holiday" will also be available on MONOMAX in Thailand, starting just 30 minutes after the end of its broadcast on TV Tokyo, at 11:30 PM local time. This simultaneous release highlights the growing appeal of Thai media productions beyond their borders, gaining traction with audiences outside of Thailand.
As the promotional efforts ramp up, the buzz surrounding "Tokyo Holiday" has already reached trending status on various platforms, indicating a high level of interest. The show's narrative, peppered with moments of tender connection and inspiring escapism, aims to resonate with a broad audience.
Fans and critics alike are eager for the release, looking forward to seeing how Gulf Kanawut and Fumika Baba bring the nuanced themes of love, identity, and self-discovery to life. This modern twist on a beloved classic, infused with the vibrancy of contemporary Tokyo and a refreshing soundtrack, sets the stage for a captivating viewing experience.
Follow along as this exciting new drama unfolds, juxtaposing the fast-paced world of celebrity and the genuine, simple joys shared between two souls searching for their true selves.
