On April 13, 2025, TBS will launch its highly anticipated drama series, Caster, featuring the acclaimed actor Abe Sadao in the lead role of Susumu Shinjyo. The show centers around the world of news broadcasting, specifically focusing on the struggles and triumphs of a news program called News Gate, which has been grappling with declining viewership despite its 40-year legacy.
Shinjyo, who is characterized as a man of conviction, believes that "the truth moves the world." He is determined to uncover hidden truths and bring justice to light, making him a compelling protagonist in this social commentary. Alongside him, the cast includes Nagano Mei as Hisae Ozaki, the show's chief director, and Douchi Shizu as Yuya Motohashi, a rookie assistant director aspiring to be a journalist.
The first episode of Caster will air every Sunday at 9:00 PM, and it promises to be a thrilling ride. The plot kicks off with Shinjyo's appointment as the new main caster of News Gate, a flagship program for JBN, which has recently seen a drop in ratings. The network's president, Kunisato Yoshio, played by Takahashi Eiki, has brought Shinjyo on board in hopes of revitalizing the show.
On his first day, Shinjyo makes a bold statement to the staff, declaring, "I have come to fix this program." His disruptive approach quickly puts him at odds with the veteran staff, particularly with Ozaki, who finds herself caught between the new ideas Shinjyo brings and the traditional ways of the newsroom.
The episode's highlight is set to be a live appearance by the Chief Cabinet Secretary, Hanyu Takeshi, portrayed by Kitaoji Kinya. However, just before the broadcast, the staff receives an unexpected cancellation notice from Hanyu's secretary, throwing the team into a panic. Instead of succumbing to the crisis, Shinjyo and Motohashi take matters into their own hands, heading out to confront Hanyu directly about the cancellation and the bribery scandal that Shinjyo has been secretly investigating.
As the tension builds, a surprising turn of events leads to News Gate going live without its main caster, creating an unpredictable and thrilling atmosphere for viewers. This moment encapsulates the essence of Shinjyo's character—a relentless pursuit of truth, no matter the obstacles.
The drama not only showcases the challenges of modern journalism but also highlights the dynamics of teamwork and the evolution of a news team under pressure. As Shinjyo's methods shake up the status quo, the characters around him, especially Ozaki and Motohashi, begin to grow and adapt, leading to an engaging narrative about personal and professional development.
In addition to its gripping storyline, Caster has garnered attention for its production quality. The Japan Volleyball Association is collaborating on the series to ensure authenticity in the portrayal of an international volleyball tournament that will be featured in the first two episodes. This partnership aims to enhance the realism of the sports scenes, further engaging viewers who appreciate a well-crafted show.
The series is written by a talented team, including Tsuchiya Ken and Oikawa Mami, with music by Kimura Hideaki. The theme song, "Usotsuki Ai," performed by the band tuki, is expected to resonate with audiences, adding an emotional layer to the show's narrative.
As excitement builds for the premiere, fans are eager to see how Shinjyo's unique approach will transform News Gate and what challenges await him and his team. With a strong cast and a compelling premise, Caster is poised to become a significant player in the Sunday night drama lineup.
Overall, Caster promises to be not just a drama about news reporting but a reflection on the importance of truth in society and the lengths to which individuals will go to uncover it. As viewers tune in, they can expect to be entertained, challenged, and perhaps inspired by the characters' journeys.
