It has been announced that Genta Matsuda of Travis Japan will appear in TV Asahi’s Oshidora Saturday “Tokyo Tower” (Saturdays, 11:00 pm) drama, starting April 20. Dumpling Box previously covered the announcement about “Tokyo Tower” and Ren Nagase’s comments about the drama.
Genta will portray Koji Ohara, a college student, and actress MEGUMI will portray Kimiko Kawano, a married woman.
About Koji Ohara
Koji Ohara is a friend of Toru’s from school who works part-time as a security guard at the same building as Toru. When he finds out that Toru has been seeing Shifumi repeatedly, he starts to long for “a love with an older woman.” His impatience at the fact that Toru is about to realize his dream, makes him try to seduce Kimiko Kawano, a housewife and mom of the daughter whom he tutors.
Comments by Genta Matsuda
“Tokyo Tower,” written by Kaori Ekuni, was made into a movie in 2005 and a drama in South Korea, but this is the first Japanese adaptation in 19 years. How did you feel when you were chosen to appear in this film?
I was honestly very happy to be cast in such a wonderful film that depicts forbidden love for adults, and I immediately saw the movie in which my seniors, Junichi Okada and Jun Matsumoto, also appeared. In preparing for the role of Koji Ohara, I aim to develop my own portrayal of him while collaborating with my co-stars on set.
The role of Koji Ohara, which was played by Jun Matsumoto in the 2005 movie, is this time yours to portray. How do you plan to approach your character?
In portraying Koji, I intend to establish various on-screen dynamics with my co-stars. Additionally, I have set a personal goal to see how well I can embody Koji’s essence. While exploring these aspects, I hope to maintain good communication with the director, staff, and my fellow cast members. Koji and I share a sense of casualness and a somewhat carefree demeanor, which I believe are crucial similarities.
While cherishing these resemblances, I also aim to deliver each of Koji’s expressions with care, particularly in scenes with MEGUMI–san. Moreover, I consider the relationship with Toru, portrayed by Ren Nagase, significant and hope to convey a human-like support for him. I am eager to see how the characters of Toru and Koji, reflecting the present era, will be depicted.
In this work, you will be engaging in a romantic relationship with MEGUMI-san’s character, Kimiko, who has a more than 20-year age gap with yours. How do you feel about this new challenge?
I have always admired unconventional situations like a “forbidden love,” as they offer a unique allure. I hope to present a new side of Genta Matsuda to everyone! MEGUMI–san has a cool and stoic image, even from the variety shows I’ve watched where she comes off as a strong older sister figure (laughs). I just met her today, and she is very beautiful. I am looking forward to working with her.
What do you think is the charm of “mature women” for you?
From my perspective, older women often exude a sense of maturity, but there’s a certain shift in atmosphere when you’re alone together, or they reveal a different side that they only show to you. I find that contrast appealing.
Although this is your first drama collaboration with Nagase-san, do you have anything you’re looking forward to on set?
Both Ren and I love soccer, and we used to play futsal together in the past, although we haven’t had the chance to meet up lately. Today, when we met after a long time, he called me “Genchosu.” It seems like he’s been calling me that even when I’m not around. Being born in ’99, I hope we can naturally showcase our camaraderie in acting too.
(Furthermore, Ren Nagase commented “Lately, I’ve been seeing a lot of Genta’s antics on variety shows, and there are moments when I think, ‘Wait, was he always like this?’ So, I’m eager to firmly ascertain whether Genta’s foolishness leans towards being a ‘business fool’ or not on set, and I’m looking forward to sharing that with everyone!”
And regarding Ren’s desire to confirm whether Genta’s character from variety shows is a “business fool,” Genta responds.)
No, this is just who I am (laughs)! Moreover, if anything, Ren has more “foolish” moments than me (laughs). He often tries to act mature, so let’s both reveal our true selves during the filming of this drama!
What does “Tokyo Tower” represent for you?
I’ve never been up Tokyo Tower. I have fond memories of it because there’s a studio downstairs where I used to do music show recordings when I first joined the agency.
Please share a message with the viewers who are looking forward to the drama.
I hope to keep the viewers on the edge of their seats with the love story between Toru and Shifumi, as well as between Koji and Kimiko. While enjoying the dynamics between Toru and Koji, I hope this drama will become something viewers can look forward to every week.
Genta is a multi-talented individual, making his mark not only in Japan but also on the international stage as a valued member of Travis Japan. His versatility shines through as he actively participates in various variety shows, captivating audiences with his engaging personality and undeniable charm. Once you watch Genta, you can’t look away.
One can’t help but notice the intriguing gap present in Genta’s persona – the stark contrast between his impeccably well-trained physique and his enduring boyish innocence. This compelling combination allows Genta to carve out a distinctive niche for himself, earning recognition as a captivating and magnetic presence on screen.
In a bold departure from his previous roles, Genta pushes the boundaries as he embodies the character of a dangerous young man who entices a married woman. This departure showcases his adaptability and willingness to take on challenging and complex roles, further solidifying his stature as a versatile and fearless performer in the entertainment industry.
Even if looks might deceive you, Genta is the youngest in the group but holds the title of “Sexy Tiger,” a part he never fails to show off with expressive charm and allure. “Tokyo Tower” will be a true test for all TraJa-TANs, but especially Genta-tans, to see if they can survive this role of Genta’s!
(Author Sabina: I am not ready! I already need CPR! LOL)
Official website: https://www.tv-asahi.co.jp/tokyotower/
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