Koyuki And Nakai Star In Romantic Comedy Revival

Koyuki and Kiichi Nakai are set to return to the small screen in the much-anticipated drama ‘Zoku・Zoku・Saigo kara Nibamme no Koi,’ premiering April 14, 2025, at 9 p.m. on Fuji TV. This romantic comedy, set in the historical city of Kamakura, will showcase a unique love story between a TV producer, portrayed by Koyuki, and Nakai’s character, a dedicated civil servant.

The show marks the third installment in the series, following ‘Saigo kara Nibamme no Koi’ which aired in January 2012, and its sequel in 2014. With an 11-year gap since the last series, the new episodes will explore how the characters have evolved over the years while maintaining the charm and essence that endeared them to fans in the first place.

A notable highlight of this new season is the ensemble cast, with several actors reprising their roles after over a decade. Maki Kubota, Tae Kimura, Emi Wakui, Nana Shiramoto, Kotoha Hiroyama, Jun Miho, Rie Shibata, Kazuyuki Asano, Makiko Watanabe, and Hiroko Moriguchi are all set to return, bringing familiarity and nostalgia to older viewers while attracting new audiences.

Acclaimed scriptwriter Akemi Okada, known for his craftsmanship in developing compelling narratives, is back for this series, promising innovative plots and original dialogue that will reflect the struggles and joys of adulthood. This season is expected to resonate deeply with the audience, portraying the complexities of relationships at different life stages.

The character dynamics have shifted slightly over the years as well. For instance, Chiaki’s devoted assistant, affectionately known as 'Mii-san' (played by Kubota), showcases a steadfast support role. Chiaki, who has taken on significant responsibilities as an executive producer, relies on Mii-san for everything from health management to handling difficult work relations, making Mii-san an indispensable ally.

In contrast, Nakai’s character, Heiwa Nagakura, has transitioned from being a superior to leading the Tourism Promotion Division in Kamakura, further deepening the professional and personal complexities surrounding his interactions with Chiaki. Their encounters promise a delightful mix of humor and heartfelt moments as they navigate their professional challenges together.

‘Zoku・Zoku・Saigo kara Nibamme no Koi’ aims to not only entertain but also evoke reflection among viewers. The characters are now equipped with more life experiences, leading to dilemmas that may hit close to home for many. As viewers encounter Chiaki and Heiwa grappling with their past decisions and current circumstances, they may find relatable themes in discussions about loneliness, life choices, and personal growth.

Additionally, the narrative includes interactions with various familiar faces in the Kamakura City Hall, providing a vibrant backdrop to the romantic plot. The show depicts the balance between personal aspirations and professional duties, allowing for interwoven stories filled with comedy and heartfelt drama.

However, the production has not been devoid of challenges. Tensions have arisen surrounding promotional activities for the series. During a recent promotional event, it was noted that no actors from the cast attended the studio recording of the ‘FNS Drama Showdown,’ raising eyebrows due to this unprecedented occurrence. Filming in Kamakura has also encountered hurdles, partly attributing delays to location permits necessitated by recent issues at Fuji TV.

Despite these obstacles, cast members express enthusiasm. Kubota shared her excitement about returning to the series, stating, “It’s incredible to think that after all this time, we are back with these characters! I hope our audience will find as much joy in these stories as we do.” Nakai echoed her sentiments, admitting to eagerly anticipating the audience's reaction and relishing the opportunity to reprise his role, saying, “I’m thrilled that ‘Zoku・Zoku・Saigo kara Nibamme no Koi’ is finally coming back; I can’t wait for the audience to reconnect with these beloved characters once more.”

The ensemble cast also features characters who have aged believably, complicating their interactions. For instance, Heiwa’s relationship dynamics shift as he guides his daughter, Erina, played by Nana Shiramoto, who has matured from a teenager into a budding creative artist, adding another layer to the storyline.

As viewers gear up for the premiere, many anticipate laughter intermingled with poignant moments, great character chemistry, and the inevitable romance that characterized the previous seasons. The series is not merely about love but encapsulates various life experiences, attempting to connect with viewers across generations.

Overall, ‘Zoku・Zoku・Saigo kara Nibamme no Koi’ is set to offer a delightful escape into a world where love and laughter intertwine, reminding everyone that life, regardless of age, is a rich, beautiful tapestry of experiences worth sharing. Fans are encouraged to tune in every Monday at 9 p.m. on Fuji TV to witness the twists and turns of this long-awaited characterization that aims to bring back nostalgic feelings paired with vibrant new developments.