On March 4, 2025, NHK announced the exciting new cast for its upcoming late-term drama series "Wake Wake," featuring notable actors Kouro Ichikawa, Wan Marui, Honami Satou, and Shirou Sano. This series, the 113th installment of NHK's popular morning drama format, tells the tale of Setsu Koizumi, the daughter of an impoverished samurai family from Matsue, who deeply loves "Kaidan" (ghost stories) alongside her foreign husband, Lafcadio Hearn, also known as Yakumo Koizumi.
The story centers on Toki Matsuno, portrayed by Akari Takaishi, who brings real-life struggles and the human spirit of the people within their social milieu to the forefront. Her husband, Hebern, played by Tomi Bastow, is drawn from Yakumo Koizumi's life, showcasing the couple's bond as they navigate the intensifying Western influence on Meiji-era Japan.
Among the newly announced cast, Kouro Ichikawa will portray Ginjiro Yamanouchi, Toki's matchmaking partner. Making his debut on the serial television stage, Ichikawa expressed, "This is my first time portraying a character set during the Meiji period, and I look forward to capturing the essence of this transformative era, marked by the abrupt clash between old values and modernization. My character, born to poverty yet bound by the tenets of bushido, meets Toki and plays witness to her unwavering spirit against adversity."
Playing Sawa Nozu, Toki's childhood friend, is Wan Marui, who returns for her second NHK drama after "Torani Tsubasa." She mentioned, "The character of Sawa, has always inspired me with her strength and resolve. I wish to convey to the audience through her story the message of self-acceptance and perseverance, reminding everyone they are already remarkable just as they are."
Another fresh addition, Honami Satou will take on the role of Nami, a prostitute hailing from the rural class, trying to support her family burdened by debt. Satou notes, "The script's tone is incredibly relatable. It highlights the mundane aspects of our lives, which may feel inconsequential but hold the potential for warmth and love. Being part of this project feels like fulfilling a dream, and I'm thankful for this opportunity!"
Shirou Sano, making his initial appearance in the morning drama, will portray Etomo, the Governor of Shimane Prefecture, who invites Hebern to the prefecture as part of his drive to improve English education for local youth. Sano shared, "I feel the weight of responsibility as I undertake the role of the governor from my hometown. The character embodies the spirit of supporting young people through education, bridging cultures for a greater future." He emphasized his connection to Matsue and hopes to bring authenticity to the character with his own experiences.
The production team, led by Kunitomi Kuraoka, expressed their enthusiasm about the cast choices. He noted Ichikawa's character's engagement may reflect both historical and modern values, invoking the complexity of social dynamics during the era. He also praised the strengths of Marui and Satou, recognizing their capability to imbue their roles with genuine emotional depth.
Akari Takaishi, as the lead character Toki, feels honored and excited to work alongside these talented actors. “When I saw the cast list, I was amazed. These are people I have always wanted to work with. That we are able to share this extraordinary experience within the world of "Wake Wake"—it’s like a dream come true!” Takaishi said, emphasizing her anticipation for the filming process, which is set to commence this month.
The narrative will not only shine light on historical figures and overlooked stories from the past but also touches on universal themes of determination, friendship, and cultural identity during the pivotal moments of Japan's modernization.
Filming for "Wake Wake" is scheduled to begin shortly, with scenes being shot throughout Matsue, where the story takes place, intertwining the fabric of local culture with the era’s historical significance. Viewers can look forward to what promises to be another compelling entry in NHK's storied legacy of nighttime dramas.