The first episode of the drama 'Jofu ~Is It Necessary to Be ×××× for Women?~' starring Ririka Yamasaki has exceeded 1 million views on TVer. This series, which aired on April 1, 2025, is based on the book by Natsuno Yachi titled 'Shin・Is It Necessary to Have a Female-Oriented Sex Industry? ~Things That Changed My Life After Working at a Female-Oriented Sex Shop~' published by Shinchosha. The drama provides a vivid portrayal of the realities of the female-oriented sex industry, known as Jofu, through the eyes of the main character who works behind the scenes.
In 'Jofu', Yamasaki plays Akari Fujisaki, who unexpectedly finds herself working as an employee at a female-oriented sex shop called "Paradise." Initially hesitant about the sex industry, Akari learns about the diverse needs of women seeking services and collaborates with a variety of therapists to address their concerns. The series not only highlights Akari's professional journey but also her personal growth as she encounters different human dramas.
As the drama unfolds, Akari is introduced to her new job by her friend Satsuki, a manga artist portrayed by Yurika Yanagi. Satsuki's recommendation comes at a time when Akari has just left her previous job, and she is unsure about her future. The first episode captures Akari's initial struggles to understand the workings of the female-oriented sex shop, as she engages with her colleagues, including the shop manager, played by Rikiya Yamazaki, and her senior staff member, Miho, portrayed by Koharu Kusumi.
The viewing statistics for the first episode were collected from April 2 to April 9, 2025, and the show has been gaining traction since its debut. Notably, the second episode, which aired on April 8, 2025, is also available on TVer, indicating a growing interest in the series.
The drama aims to shed light on the important yet often stigmatized topic of female-oriented services, showcasing the challenges and triumphs faced by women who seek these services. Through Akari’s journey, viewers are invited to explore the complex emotional landscapes of both the clients and the therapists.
Broadcasting every Tuesday from 24:30 to 25:00 on TV Tokyo, TV Aichi, TV Setouchi, TV Hokkaido, and TVQ Kyushu Broadcasting, 'Jofu' has quickly become a topic of discussion among audiences. The series is produced by TV Tokyo and Avex Film Labels, with a talented team behind the scenes, including directors Ayaka Kato, Ryusuke Kurahashi, and Junichi Yamamura, along with scriptwriters Manbou Yashiro, Shohei Fukuda, and Atsushi Hiromatsu.
The music for the series is composed by Daisuke Nishimura, and the ending theme is performed by Hakane, titled "Shinkirou," released under Victor Entertainment. This combination of engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and quality production has contributed to the show's success.
As the series continues to develop, many viewers are eager to see how Akari's character evolves and how the various storylines unfold. The portrayal of the female-oriented sex industry through a human drama lens not only entertains but also encourages conversations about women's needs and societal perceptions.
'Jofu' is more than just a drama; it’s a reflection of contemporary issues faced by women, making it relevant to a wide audience. As Akari navigates her new role, she symbolizes the journey of many women who seek to understand their desires and the societal norms surrounding them.
In conclusion, 'Jofu ~Is It Necessary to Be ×××× for Women?~' is setting a new standard in television dramas by tackling subjects that resonate deeply with viewers, and its impressive viewership numbers are a testament to its relevance and appeal.
