On March 4, 2025, the additional cast for the 2025 NHK morning drama 'Bakebake' was announced, showcasing the much-anticipated debut of 28-year-old actor Kaito Ichiro, son of the famed actor Hiroshi Sato. Kaito will portray Ginjiro Yamanouchi, the matchmaking partner of heroine Toki Matsuno, played by Akari Takaishi. This marks Kaito Ichiro's first appearance on the popular morning drama series, adding to the excitement surrounding the project.
Joining Kaito Ichiro are other notable actors, including Shirota Masano, Honami Satou, and Wan Marui. Kaito's character, Ginjiro, is described as the second son of a poor samurai family from Tottori Prefecture. Raised under strict discipline, he holds steadfast to the values of the once-noble samurai lifestyle. The character's hobbies include storytelling and traditional Japanese narrative arts, adding depth to his persona, which will intrigingly intersect with Toki's life.
This production is particularly meaningful for Kaito, as he shares his personal sentiments: "I have often been involved with period dramas, but this is my first work set during the Meiji era, and I approach it with very fresh feelings." He continued to share insights about the time period: "The story reflects the confusion brought about by rapid modernization, where conflicts between old values and new ones become apparent during the Meiji period." Kaito’s role as Ginjiro is marked by his integrity and insight, traits he emphasizes saying, "I want to express the eagerness of my character, Ginjiro, who is born from an impoverished family but has pure heart and insight.”
Shirota Masano has also joined the ensemble, playing the role of the Governor of Shimane Prefecture, Eito. This being his first time participating in 'bakebake', Shirota expressed excitement along with the seriousness he feels about the responsibility of portraying someone from Matsue: "Playing the role of Shimane Prefecture Governor, I feel both excitement and the weight of responsibility as someone from Matsue.” He brings with him years of experience and passion for performing, which he hopes will blend harmoniously with the drama’s narrative.
With Honami Satou’s role as the courtesan Nami, she expressed her long-term dreams of being part of such creative storytelling and enthused about the potential her character has within the ensemble: "This is my first time being part of the morning drama, and I feel it fitting as my love for Yasunari Kawabata will bring out my full dedication to this role.”
Wan Marui has also made strides by portraying Toki's childhood friend, Sawako. Remarkably, she mentions the emotional intricacies surrounding her character, stating, "Through my character Sawako, I hope to convey to everyone out there, you don’t have to be special; you’re already fantastic as you are".
The creative insights haven’t gone unnoticed by the team behind 'Bakebake'. The show is set against the backdrop of modernization after the Meiji Restoration, shedding light on the life challenges faced during this era infused with personal struggles. It offers audiences both heartfelt moments and social reflections as narrated through Toki’s arduous yet hopeful life story.
The production team, directed by Kunitomi Hashizume, expressed great anticipation for Kaito Ichiro’s role, noting how his pure portrayal will resonate with viewers: "Kaito Ichiro's character is one who, even amid poverty, maintains a sincere and pure-hearted nature." Hashizume elaborated with excitement, emphasizing the heartwarming exchanges between Toki and Ginjiro, events pivotal to the charming fabric of the drama.
Kaito Ichiro was born on August 16, 1996, and debuted as an actor in 2017. He quickly made his mark by winning the 27th Japan Film Critics Awards Newcomer Actor Award for his performance in 'Miracles of the Namiya General Store'. His 2018 role in 'Chrysanthemum and Guillotine' earned him praise, followed by multiple awards recognizing his acting talents including Best New Actor at the Takasaki Film Festival.
Now facing this new artistic challenge enhances Kaito Ichiro’s growing legacy, exemplified by the engaging emotional depth he appears set to bring to 'Bakebake'. This 113th production of NHK’s morning series promises to intertwine personal stories and historical depiction, allowing viewers to glean insights about Japan’s storied past through vibrant characters.
'Bakebake' creatively recounts tales reminiscent of the famed writer Koizumi Yakumo (Lafcadio Hearn) and is built upon stories of his wife, Setsu Koizumi. This fictional nostalgia has no original texts and is shaped thanks to the talent of writer Mitsuhiko Fujiki, who has previously contributed to series such as 'The Sisters of Agasaka' and 'Designer Naoto Shibuya's Day Off'. The casting of Akari Takaishi, chosen from 2892 auditioners, demonstrates the heavy emphasis on talent behind this drama, with her partner being portrayed by renowned UK actor and musician Tommy Basto.
This latest NHK drama brings forward fresh talent alongside seasoned professionals, creating anticipation among audiences hungry for both entertainment and cultural insights as it approaches its 2025 premiere.