On April 13, 2025, the highly anticipated Sunday drama 'Caster' premiered on TBS, captivating audiences with its gripping narrative and star-studded cast. Starring the acclaimed Arata Abe, the show is set against the backdrop of a television news program, focusing on the pursuit of buried truths and the quest for justice in a society riddled with darkness.
'Caster' takes viewers into the world of 'News Gate', a flagship news program of the commercial TV station JBN, which boasts a rich 40-year history but has recently struggled with declining viewership. In a bold move to revitalize the show, JBN's Chairman Kunisada Yoshio, played by Hideki Takahashi, recruits Uichi Susumu, portrayed by Abe, from public broadcasting, where he had built a 15-year career as a reporter.
Upon taking the reins as the new main caster, Susumu makes a striking declaration on his first day: "I have come to fix this program!" His unconventional approach immediately sets the tone for the series, as he promises to break away from traditional reporting methods and challenge the status quo. This proclamation places the chief director, Isuho Ozaki, played by Yuina Nagano, in a difficult position, caught between Susumu's radical changes and the veteran staff's resistance.
The premiere episode features a high-stakes live interview with Chief Cabinet Secretary Habu Isao, played by Kitaro Kitaoji. However, just before the segment, the production team receives an urgent cancellation notice, throwing the show's plans into disarray. While the staff panics, Susumu takes matters into his own hands, teaming up with rookie assistant director Yuto Motohashi, played by Yuzuto Michieda, to confront Habu directly about the cancellation and investigate allegations of bribery linked to the situation.
As the drama unfolds, viewers are treated to a thrilling ride that combines investigative journalism with elements of suspense and intrigue. The unexpected turn of events leads 'News Gate' into a live broadcast without its main caster, highlighting the chaotic and unpredictable nature of news reporting.
Fans of the show have already begun to express their enthusiasm for the series, praising the impressive cast and the engaging storyline. Comments on social media have noted, "The cast is gorgeous!" and "Arata Abe's stability is amazing!" Many viewers are also intrigued by the final scene of the first episode, which hints at a possible scandal involving Susumu and Habu, prompting speculation about the direction of the series. "Is it a dark hero series?" one fan asked, while another expressed excitement about what the next episode might reveal about Susumu's true intentions.
In addition to the compelling plot, 'Caster' boasts a realistic portrayal of the inner workings of a news program. The production team has recreated the news bureau using a large-scale two-story set, and actual equipment from TBS is used during live broadcasts, adding authenticity to the show's depiction of journalism.
The theme song for the series, "Usotsuki," performed by tuki., a rising star who gained attention during last year's Kohaku Uta Gassen, adds an additional layer of appeal to the drama.
As 'Caster' continues to air every Sunday at 9 PM, audiences can expect more twists and turns as Susumu navigates the murky waters of journalism, determined to uncover the truth, no matter the cost. With its unique premise and strong performances, the series is poised to become a standout in the landscape of Japanese television dramas.
In summary, 'Caster' not only entertains but also prompts viewers to reflect on the importance of truth in media and the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in their pursuit of justice. As the series progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Susumu's character evolves and how the show addresses the challenges of modern reporting.
