TBS has announced the upcoming special drama project titled Wagaya wa Tanoshii, set to air on March 13, featuring the celebrated collaboration of renowned creators Yamamoto Mirai and Ishiguro Fuku. This marks their first joint effort since the highly regarded Ani Imouto aired seven years ago.
At the heart of this family drama is the character Hironobu Hirayama, portrayed by the acclaimed Kobayashi Muneyasu. Hironobu’s story begins upon his retirement from the company he diligently served throughout his career. He dreams of enjoying peaceful days post-retirement, but his ambitions are soon upended by his wife Shie, played by Toda Keiko. Shie has her eyes set on opening her own book café, using Hironobu's retirement package to fund her entrepreneurial dream—a vision he adamantly opposes.
Complications arise as Shie’s desire clashes with Hironobu’s wish for tranquility, weaving this household narrative through familial disputes and touching on the broader topic of divorce—a situation remarkably relevant as more couples face challenges after retirement.
Alongside Hirayama and Shie, the couple's children add depth to the storyline: their son Kazuo, portrayed by Takahashi Kaito, who is currently studying at university, and Haruka, played by Sakurai Yuki. Kazuo’s girlfriend, played by Yamada Anna, and Haruka’s husband, portrayed by Enari Kazuki, also contribute to the familial dynamics.
The drama does not shy away from the reality of family life. According to the producers, “Though they are family, it is imperative to articulate what truly matters to one another.” This theme resonates deeply with audiences today as it highlights modern familial relationships where communication may falter.
Yamamoto Mirai, assuming the role of both writer and director, remarks, “This work examines the anxieties of contemporary employees as they transition to life after corporate careers, depicting significant life events such as unexpected family disputes.” The narrative not only reflects specific conflicts but also captures the universal themes of human relationships and the complexity of family life.
From Shie’s ambition for her café and Hironobu’s reluctance, the drama invites viewers to reflect on significant yet often unspoken family matters. The creators aim to spark discussion around the notion of family, emphasizing the necessity to communicate openly even after years of living under one roof.
Ishiguro Fuku, the renowned producer, emphasizes, “We aim to portray genuine family struggles authentically. Despite the inevitable conflicts, we convey the beautiful essence of family, urging viewers to recognize joy amid their personal trials.” This sentiment underpins the series’ core message: family may face tumult, but together they can navigate through the storms.
With creative minds like Yamamoto Mirai and Ishiguro Fuku at the helm, Wagaya wa Tanoshii promises to be more than just another family drama. Set to air at 9 PM on March 13, it aims to resonate with contemporary audiences by rekindling the conversation about family bonds, deepening the relationships, and highlighting the joys and sorrows shared among family members.
Viewers can anticipate hearing heartfelt dialogues and witness cathartic resolutions as the story progresses, all aimed at reminding us how pivotal communication is within familial settings. The ensemble cast is expected to deliver compelling performances, with their portrayals inviting audiences to engage with the characters’ struggles as if they were their own.
Indeed, TBS’s special drama Wagaya wa Tanoshii encapsulates not only the intricacies of familial relations but also the need for clarity and compassion within the family unit. Audiences can look forward to the premiere, reflecting, connecting, and possibly finding their circumstances mirrored on-screen.