King & Prince’s Ren Nagase has officially announced the launch of his new drama, titled "御曹司に恋はムズすぎる" ("Love is Too Difficult for the Young Nobility"), set to premiere on January 7, 2025. At the production conference held on January 4, 2025, in Tokyo, Nagase shared insights about his character and the dynamics of the romantic comedy.
Portraying Tendo Subaru, the affluent heir of a major apparel company, Nagase described his role as challenging yet exciting, especially since it marks his first foray as the lead in a romantic comedy. "I think you can understand Subaru's charm the more you get to know him," he remarked, expressing his interest in showcasing the character's growth as he navigates love for the first time alongside his co-star, Hanakura Madoka, played by Mizuki Yamashita.
"Love is Too Difficult for the Young Nobility" tells the story of Subaru, who lives a life of luxury and indulgence, and Madoka, who is down-to-earth and practical. The juxtaposition of their contrasting backgrounds offers fertile ground for comedy and romance as they collaborate on a children’s clothing line.
During the event, Nagase lightheartedly recounted moments from the filming, including one incident where he unexpectedly hugged his seasoned co-star, Takeishi Josuke, which caused the latter to forget his lines. Nagase explained, "He was surprised when I suddenly hugged him, and his lines got mixed up." Josuke confirmed the amusing event, noting, "Nagase is full of energy and continuously surprises us with his creativity. He brings such vitality to the set!" Amidst laughter, the camaraderie between cast members was palpable, showcasing both professionalism and fun.
Nagase shared his thrilling experiences from his New Year holiday, emphasizing how they influenced his preparation for this new venture. "The New Year was ... I had my first experience of scrubbing myself, and it was really painful! But it feels good too!" he recounted, which sparked chuckles from the audience. Such candid moments reflect his approachable personality as he steps outside the glamorous idol image he often portrays.
Ren’s co-star, Daigo Nishihata, chimed in, reflecting the close bond they share, which translates well onto the screen. He quipped, "The character Subaru is just like Ren exaggerated to the max!" Both actors agree their friendship has elevated the portrayal of their characters, contributing to genuine chemistry and storytelling depth.
The production team believes Nagase's portrayal of Subaru as spoilt yet vulnerable will resonate with audiences. “The themes of friendship, love, and career struggles intertwine beautifully, making Tuesday nights enjoyable and relatable,” he enthused. The humor and relatable challenges Subaru faces make it unique, promising to charm viewers.
"This series is crafted to give back to the audience, offering comfort and laughter, and we're excited to debut it this January," Nagase concluded. The anticipation surrounding the premiere continues to build, with fans eager to see how the romantic entanglements and comedic situations will evolve as the series airs weekly on Tuesdays at 11 PM on Fuji TV.