In the latest episode of the popular Fuji Television drama Jinji no Hito, which aired on April 22, 2025, viewers witnessed a heartwarming exchange between the characters Jinji Ren and Shiori Moriya, played by Genta Matsuda and Hinako Sakurai, respectively. This moment sparked a flurry of excitement on social media, with fans expressing their admiration for the characters and their performances.
Sakurai, who at 28 years old is gaining recognition for her role in the show, took to social media to thank viewers for their support, saying, "Thank you to everyone who watched the third episode of Jinji no Hito." She shared behind-the-scenes photos showcasing her character's playful twin-tail hairstyle and glasses, while also enjoying a bento lunch. Fans responded enthusiastically, with comments like "So cute!" and "She still looks like a high school girl!" flooding her posts.
Jinji no Hito focuses on the dynamics within a corporate personnel department, where Jinji, described as a pure-hearted and somewhat naive character, strives to tackle various employee issues alongside his colleagues. The show highlights the challenges faced by modern workers, resonating with many viewers who relate to the struggles depicted. The series airs every Tuesday from 9:00 PM to 9:54 PM and is also available on FOD and TVer.
In the third episode, a pivotal scene featured Jinji comforting Moriya, who confided in him about her struggles with social interactions during her school days. "I couldn’t talk to people well in my student days, but when I’m drawing, I forget even unpleasant things. Only when I draw and show my drawings do I feel like I can be with someone," she shared. Jinji's reassuring response, "I’m here, aren’t I? I haven’t been shown your drawings, but I’m here with you now. I think Moriya-san is someone who can do anything together, whether drawing manga or not," struck a chord with viewers, leading to comments like "Jinji is such a good person!" and "I’m going to like him!" on social media.
The storyline also delves into contemporary issues such as side jobs, with Moriya supporting a colleague, Tsuchihashi, who is engaged in VTuber activities. When Jinji learns about this, he boldly suggests, "Shouldn’t we change the employment rules?" proposing to utilize the in-house liaison council to amend the rules prohibiting side jobs. This subplot adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, reflecting the ongoing conversation about work-life balance and the gig economy.
As the episode concluded, viewers were left with a sense of anticipation regarding Moriya's budding romance with Jinji. The scene where she smiled while looking at a sketch she made of him left many wondering how their relationship will develop in future episodes. The chemistry between Matsuda and Sakurai has been well-received, with fans eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Overall, Jinji no Hito continues to captivate its audience with its relatable themes and endearing characters. With its mix of humor, drama, and heartfelt moments, the show is carving out a niche in the crowded landscape of Japanese television dramas.
