The fourth episode of the NHK serial TV novel Anpan, featuring actress Minami Hamabe, aired on April 3, 2025, and left viewers in shock with a sudden and unexpected development. The drama centers around the character Nobu, played by Yuzuna Nagisa, who bids farewell to her father, Yatao Musubi, portrayed by Ryo Katsuji, as he departs for a one-month business trip.
However, the tone quickly shifts when Nobu receives devastating news from her father's attending physician, Shigeru Yanagi, played by Yutaka Takenouchi. Musubi has tragically died of a heart attack while at sea, and the episode concludes with Nobu, her mother Hamako, portrayed by Noriko Eguchi, and her grandparents left in a state of shock and disbelief.
This episode has sparked a flurry of reactions online, with many viewers expressing their astonishment and sorrow over the abrupt loss of Musubi. Comments flooded social media, with fans stating, "I had a bad feeling about this," and "Why did he have to go so soon?" The emotional impact of the storyline has resonated deeply, pulling at the heartstrings of the audience.
Ryo Katsuji, who plays Yatao Musubi, described his character as a man with progressive values for his time, who is deeply grateful to his wife, Hamako, for managing the household while he travels for work. Katsuji shared, "When I read the script, I felt that Musubi was a calm person with advanced values for the era. He believes that his daughters should be free to pursue their dreams without restrictions, saying, ‘It’s fine if you come home with scraped knees.’" This sentiment reflects Musubi's nurturing nature and modern parenting approach.
In a heartfelt comment about his role, Katsuji expressed his admiration for the creator of Anpan, saying, "I have always liked Yanase, so I was happy to participate in this drama. I remember reading the Anpanman picture books and feeling warm inside. After that, I read various articles about Yanase's experiences during the war, and I have always thought he was a kind person. I hope this series will explore the theme of unchanging justice, as mentioned in the first episode."
The previous episode, which aired on April 2, 2025, also featured a shocking moment when Hamako placed a willow branch at the memorial for Musubi, marking the first anniversary of his death. This poignant scene set the stage for the heart-wrenching news that would unfold in the next episode.
Fans have been vocal about their feelings regarding the rapid developments in the storyline. Many expressed their disbelief at the speed of Musubi's exit, with comments like, "It seems like he could have lived longer," and "I can't believe they did this to us so soon!" The emotional rollercoaster of the past two episodes has left viewers eagerly anticipating how the story will unfold next.
As the series progresses, Katsuji's portrayal of Musubi is expected to leave a lasting impact on the audience. His character's commitment to his family and his forward-thinking values are likely to resonate with viewers, even in his absence. The exploration of themes such as family, love, and the quest for justice will continue to be central to the narrative.
The drama Anpan is currently airing on NHK General and has already garnered significant attention for its captivating storytelling and emotional depth. With each episode, the series delves into the complexities of relationships and the challenges faced by its characters, keeping viewers engaged and invested in their journeys.
As the story unfolds, audiences are left wondering how Nobu and her family will cope with the loss of Musubi and what challenges lie ahead for them. The unexpected twists and turns in the plot have set a precedent for a gripping narrative that promises to explore the depths of human emotion and resilience.
In conclusion, the fourth episode of Anpan has not only shocked viewers with its sudden developments but has also highlighted the importance of family bonds and the impact of loss. With Ryo Katsuji's heartfelt performance and the show's commitment to meaningful storytelling, Anpan is poised to continue captivating audiences as it explores the themes of justice and love in the face of adversity.
