In a groundbreaking announcement for the upcoming NHK Taiga drama "Toyotomi Brothers!" set to air in 2026, several new cast members have been revealed, including Nagi Inoue from the popular idol group Nogizaka46. Inoue will make her Taiga drama debut, portraying the significant character Chacha, the eldest daughter of the Asai Three Sisters, a prominent figure during Japan's Warring States period.
The drama centers around the life of Hidenaga Toyotomi, Hideyoshi's younger brother, and depicts the tumultuous events of the era as the Toyotomi brothers strive for unification and power. Taiga Nakano will take on the lead role of Koichiro Kinoshita, representing Hidenaga, while Eita Ikematsu will play his older brother, Tokichiro Kinoshita, known as Hideyoshi Toyotomi.
Inoue expressed her excitement about landing the role, stating, "I was very surprised and still can’t believe it. I’ve been watching my senior, Shiori Kubo, who starred in 'How Will You Handle Ieyasu?' and always dreamed of being in a Taiga drama myself." As Chacha, Inoue will navigate the complexities of her character's life, which includes her father's conflict with Oda Nobunaga and her eventual role as a concubine to Hideyoshi, a historical figure she finds both challenging and intriguing to portray.
Other notable cast members include Matsumoto Reo as Mitsunari Ishida, a loyal retainer of Hideyoshi, and Kurita Ryu as Tatsuoki Saito, the grandson of Dosan Saito, who inherits his clan at just 14 years old. The script for "Toyotomi Brothers!" is penned by Hiroki Yatsu, known for his work on popular series like "Hanzawa Naoki" and "Ochoyan." The series promises to deliver a riveting portrayal of the era, showcasing the brothers' ambitious quest for dominance amidst the chaos of war.
The casting announcement also highlighted the importance of youth in the series, with producer Takahashi Yukako noting, "The show will feature young characters who grow and evolve throughout the series, ultimately leaving their mark on history." This youthful energy is expected to resonate with audiences, drawing them into the rich narrative of the Toyotomi family's rise.
Inoue's role as Chacha will see her exploring the emotional depth of a character who is often overshadowed by her male counterparts. The Asai Three Sisters, which includes Chacha, are notable figures in Japanese history, known for their intelligence and resilience during a time of great strife. Inoue aims to portray Chacha not just as a strong woman but as someone who makes strategic choices in the face of adversity.
"I initially thought of Chacha as a strong woman, but I’ve come to realize she was someone who made tough decisions for the sake of her loved ones," Inoue shared. "I hope to capture her strength and vulnerability in my performance. This opportunity is both thrilling and daunting, but I am ready to embrace the challenge."
Alongside Inoue, the cast also includes Hamabe Minami as Nene, Hideyoshi's wife, and Sugai Yuka as Matsu, the legal wife of Toshiie Maeda. Each character brings a unique perspective to the story, contributing to the intricate tapestry of relationships and power dynamics that define the era.
The show's promotional material has also been released, featuring a logo designed by NHK's visual design department. The design emphasizes the collaborative efforts of the Toyotomi brothers and highlights the significance of Hidenaga's role in the family's legacy. The logo incorporates elements that symbolize the brothers' achievements and the underlying themes of strength and unity.
As anticipation builds for "Toyotomi Brothers!", fans of historical dramas and Japanese history alike are eager to see how this ensemble cast will bring to life the stories of these legendary figures. The series promises to be a compelling mix of drama, action, and historical intrigue, showcasing the trials and triumphs of the Toyotomi family in their quest for power.
With the premiere date set for 2026, viewers can expect a captivating depiction of a pivotal moment in Japan's history, enriched by the performances of a talented cast. As Inoue prepares for her role, she is filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a prestigious project, hoping to leave a lasting impression on viewers with her portrayal of Chacha.
As production progresses, the team behind "Toyotomi Brothers!" is committed to delivering a series that not only entertains but also educates audiences about the complexities of Japan's Warring States period. With its strong narrative and character-driven storytelling, the drama is poised to become a standout entry in NHK's long-standing tradition of Taiga dramas.
