In a surprising turn of events, the third episode of the Fuji TV drama Zoku・Zoku・Saigo kara Nibanme no Koi, aired on April 28, 2025, captivated audiences with its blend of romance and comedy set against the backdrop of Kamakura. The show features Kyoko Koizumi as a TV producer and Kazuichi Nakai as a civil servant, exploring the complexities of love and life in a charming Japanese town.
This latest installment is particularly notable as it marks the third season of a series that first premiered in January 2012. The original series, Saigo kara Nibanme no Koi, followed by a special edition in November of the same year and the second season in 2014, has garnered a loyal following over the years. Now, eleven years later, the story continues to unfold, delving deeper into the characters’ lives.
Episode three reveals the backstory of Kazuhira Nagakura, played by Nakai, particularly focusing on the infamous “Ero-bon Issue,” a humorous subplot that has become a recurring theme in the show. As Kazuhira navigates various challenges related to this issue, he finds himself in a bar where he meets Chiaki Naraken, portrayed by the esteemed actor Tomowa Mitsuura.
The scene at the bar is pivotal; it showcases a heartwarming moment between Kazuhira and Naraken, who is a doctor and a friend of Chiaki, played by Koizumi. Their conversation leads to an impromptu game of catch, with Naraken offering to catch for Kazuhira, who admits he has never fully committed to throwing a ball. Naraken’s encouragement and kindness touch Kazuhira deeply, highlighting the themes of support and friendship.
In a humorous exchange during their bar meeting, the two characters share their ages. Kazuhira, responding with “63,” is met with Naraken’s jovial declaration of being “73.” The revelation of Naraken’s age surprises both Kazuhira and the audience, with viewers taking to social media to express their disbelief at Mitsuura’s youthful appearance. Comments such as “Tomowa Mitsuura is too young for 73” and “He’s so young!” flooded in, showcasing the actor’s enduring charm.
Mitsuura’s addition to the cast has been met with excitement, particularly from Koizumi, who has long admired his wife, the legendary idol Momoe Yamaguchi. According to sources from the drama, Koizumi has expressed a desire to discuss her admiration for Yamaguchi with Mitsuura during breaks on set. This connection adds a layer of intrigue to their on-screen chemistry.
Koizumi, in a past interview with MEKURU 07, revealed that Yamaguchi was her idol, and the two share a unique history in the entertainment industry. Yamaguchi retired at the peak of her fame in 1980, and just two years later, Koizumi made her debut on the audition program Star Tanjo!, following in her footsteps but carving out her own distinct path as an actress, singer, and producer.
The cultural significance of the show extends beyond its narrative. It reflects the evolving landscape of Japanese television and the changing perceptions of age and beauty in the entertainment industry. The audience’s reaction to Mitsuura’s age serves as a reminder that talent and charisma often defy conventional expectations.
As the series progresses, viewers can expect more heartfelt moments and comedic escapades that explore the dynamics of love, friendship, and the trials of everyday life. The strong performances by Koizumi, Nakai, and Mitsuura continue to resonate with fans, making Zoku・Zoku・Saigo kara Nibanme no Koi a must-watch this season.
In summary, the third episode of Zoku・Zoku・Saigo kara Nibanme no Koi not only entertains but also sparks conversations about age, admiration, and the bonds formed through shared experiences. As the series unfolds, audiences are left eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for these beloved characters.
