In the latest episode of NHK's Taiga drama "Benebo ~Shogun Yoshinobu's Great Ambition~," veteran actor Koji Ishizaka has once again captivated audiences with his portrayal of Matsudaira Takechika, a character known for his striking long white eyebrows. The 15th episode, titled "The Deadly Handbag," aired on April 13, 2025, and featured a gripping scene showcasing Takechika's impressive deductive skills, drawing comparisons to the iconic detective Kosuke Kindaichi.
As the drama unfolds, viewers witness the sudden death of Tokugawa Iemochi, referred to as "Lord of the West Maru," during a falconry outing, raising suspicions of poisoning. The plot thickens when Ii Naosuke, played by Tsuyoshi Watanabe, is implicated due to his strained relationship with Iemochi. However, the handbag that could hold the key to the mystery ends up in the hands of Takechika, further complicating the narrative.
Ishizaka, who has been a part of Taiga dramas since the black-and-white television era, expressed his thoughts on the character he portrays. "Takechika is an elder statesman who believes in preserving the Tokugawa shogunate and its conservative values," he explained. He further elaborated that the character embodies a conservative leader who is wary of new influences, particularly those advocating for a shift in the economic system.
In preparation for his role, Ishizaka researched Matsudaira Takechika, discovering that he served three generations of shoguns. "He was a trusted figure, referred to as the 'Chief Elder,' and held a significant position in the government," Ishizaka noted. The actor aimed to depict Takechika as an old-fashioned leader, employing a traditional manner of speaking and avoiding modern gestures, which added depth to his performance.
One of the most talked-about aspects of Ishizaka's portrayal is his character's long white eyebrows. Initially, the eyebrows were so long that they obstructed his vision during filming. "When I first tried them on, I couldn't see at all!" he laughed. After consulting with chief director Takushi Ohara, the eyebrows were adjusted to a more manageable length, but not without some playful experimentation. Ishizaka recalled, "We decided it would be bold to go for a distinctive look, and I ended up gradually trimming them down to fit better. It became a part of my character, and I grew quite fond of them!"
The dramatic tension in the 15th episode culminates as Takechika confronts Ii Naosuke about the handbag. "This handbag was a gift from the princess to Lord Iemochi. Of course, the princess would never poison it," Takechika asserts, skillfully deducing that someone else must be behind the plot. His reasoning resonates with viewers, prompting discussions on social media about Ishizaka's convincing performance. "His persuasive power is unmatched!" fans commented on X (formerly Twitter), praising the actor's ability to bring the character's intelligence and authority to life.
Throughout the filming process, Ishizaka and Watanabe bonded over their shared love for baseball, often discussing their favorite team, the Hanshin Tigers, during breaks. "We both enjoy the game, and it was a great way to connect outside of our characters," Ishizaka shared, highlighting the camaraderie that developed on set.
Reflecting on his extensive career, Ishizaka noted that he has appeared in 12 Taiga dramas over the past 14 years. "Each role has been a learning experience, akin to studying at a prestigious school for acting. I feel like I've been on a journey of growth throughout my time in this genre," he remarked.
As the episode aired, viewers were treated to a thrilling mix of intrigue and historical drama. Ishizaka's portrayal of Takechika not only showcased his acting prowess but also brought to light the complexities of a character navigating a changing political landscape in Edo period Japan. The episode's powerful dialogue, particularly Takechika's assertion that "the affairs of the world are first and foremost about money," resonated with contemporary audiences, drawing parallels to today's societal issues.
In conclusion, Ishizaka's performance continues to garner acclaim, proving that his skills as an actor are as sharp as ever. With the storyline evolving and the stakes rising, fans eagerly await the next developments in "Benebo," where history and drama intertwine seamlessly.
