Naniwa Danshi’s Joichiro “Joe” Fujiwara is making a home run this summer as he steps into his first solo lead role in a terrestrial TV drama and fulfills a long-held dream—performing the theme song for his own show.
The new original series Laundering premieres July 3 as the third installment in the Kansai TV × FOD drama slot, airing every Thursday at 12:15 a.m. (KTV) and 2:15 a.m. (Fuji TV).
Fujiwara plays Eisuke Hiyama, a struggling actor burdened with an unusual, seemingly useless ability: he can hear the voices of the dead. Reluctantly pulled into the murky underworld of society, Hiyama finds himself confronting injustice and uncovering hidden truths, offering solace to those who died under tragic circumstances. Laundering is a social mystery drama that explores deep emotional themes through a supernatural lens, spotlighting people marginalized by society.
The drama also stars Yuka Sugai as Karin Aosawa, an employee at Amami Real Estate, where Hiyama ends up working part-time. Karin has her own unique ability—she can perceive the “danger level” of places and objects through colors, though she cannot see spirits directly. With her cool and pragmatic personality, she becomes both a caretaker and partner to Hiyama in his spectral investigations.
Ryohei Otani plays Goro Amami, the president of Amami Real Estate. Known for dealing with clients who often face discrimination in housing—such as nightlife workers, welfare recipients, or ex-convicts—Amami runs what is known as a “last resort” real estate firm. Though driven by business motives, his cold pragmatism adds a layer of tension to the story.
The plot thickens when Hiyama is offered a high-paying gig: to live temporarily in a luxury apartment where a woman reportedly jumped to her death five years prior. Many tenants have since come and gone, some falling into deep emotional turmoil. But Hiyama hears the voice of the deceased woman—and she isn’t saying she took her own life. She insists: “I was murdered.”
Adding to the excitement, Naniwa Danshi performs the drama’s newly written theme song, “Black Nightmare.” Marking the group’s first time providing a theme song for a Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama, this electro-dance track with hip-hop elements captures the show’s hardboiled, enigmatic atmosphere. With provocative lyrics and a pulsing beat, “Black Nightmare” showcases a daring new side of Naniwa Danshi.
Fujiwara shared his excitement: “This track is incredibly addictive and shows a whole new face of Naniwa Danshi. It was a fresh challenge with rap elements and fast-paced rhythms. The chorus, especially the ‘BABABABA DADADADA’ line, was tough for everyone to master—even Daigo Nishihata joked about how hard it was!“
He added that the song opens with his own spoken line, offering a unique tie-in with his character: “It was a sweet spot I got to claim, starting the song myself. I debated whether to channel my character, Hiyama, but decided to dive in as Joichiro Fujiwara. I hope fans enjoy that contrast between the real me and my on-screen persona.”
Fujiwara sees this milestone as a career highlight: “Performing the theme song for my own drama has always been a dream, and I achieved it just before turning 30. I’m beyond grateful, especially because Laundering is produced by Kansai TV, who have supported me throughout my career. I hope this opens the door for more opportunities like this.”
— On his reaction to receiving the offer
My first thought was, ‘It’s Kansai TV!’ (laughs). They’ve taken care of me even before our CD debut. From appearing on SUPER EIGHT’s Kanjani∞ no Janiben to our own variety show Naniwa kara Ae! Kazefukasemasu!, we’ve been given so many opportunities.
Actually, I was born in the hospital behind Kansai TV, so I might be the idol closest to Kantele! (laughs) Being able to take on my first solo lead role in a drama at the station I grew up watching, and working with the staff who supported me during my junior years—it’s a huge honor. It really makes me glad I was raised in Osaka.
— On the impression of the theme song
It’s super addictive, and the song really shows a side of Naniwa Danshi that people haven’t seen before. It has a rap vibe and a vertical rhythm that made it a fresh challenge for us. The members all said it was tough—especially the part where we all sing ‘BABABABA DADADADA.’ It took time for our mouths to get used to it… Even Nishihata (Daigo) said, ‘Joe (Fujiwara)’s song was so hard!’ (laughs). We recorded it alongside our new album BON BON VOYAGE, but everyone ended up spending a lot of time on ‘Black Nightmare.’
That said, it has a fast-paced intro and a cool, mysterious vibe that fits Laundering perfectly. I really hope everyone listens to it a lot!
— On his favorite part
When it’s the theme song for your own drama, you get the good parts! (laughs)
This track actually starts with my line. I wasn’t sure whether to suggest my character Hiyama in it, but I decided to go all in as Joichiro Fujiwara of Naniwa Danshi. I hope people enjoy the contrast between that and the version of me in the drama.
That ‘BABABABA DADADADA’ part feels like you’re hearing something, like a sound drawing nearer—which ties nicely into the ‘voices of ghosts’ aspect in the drama. The chorus lyrics like ‘Who are you? Know and you lose. Keep deceiving and laugh until you’re caught’ also really resonate with Laundering, so I hope people pay attention to that too.
— On starring in his first solo drama and singing the theme song
This was one of my dreams, so I’m incredibly happy. I was able to accomplish something that fans were looking forward to during the final year of my twenties!
Just being able to do a theme song as Naniwa Danshi is amazing, but the fact that it’s for my drama makes it even more special. And to top it off, it’s produced by Kansai TV, who have supported me throughout the years, which makes it even more meaningful. I hope this will be the start of more opportunities for us to do theme songs for other dramas!
— On reading the script
The first thing I did was look up the meaning of ‘Laundering.’ I got results like ‘washing clothes’ and other definitions, so I was puzzled at first. But as the story progresses, you start to understand the significance of the title. It’s a show where the title becomes clear as the plot unfolds, so I hope viewers will enjoy watching it all come together.
My character, Eisuke Hiyama, is a sincere and pure-hearted guy. While the idea of ‘hearing ghosts’ might sound scary, the drama focuses more on human connections and warmth than horror, so I think viewers will find it heartwarming.
— On playing Eisuke Hiyama
After the script reading, I discussed with the director and realized how much I have in common with Hiyama. He’s a struggling actor who finally feels needed because of a strange ability—that resonated with me as someone who had a long journey before CD debut. I think there are hints from my own life I can channel into the role.
When I come across parts I don’t understand, I think them through based on the script or get inspired by the other characters. That’s how I’m shaping my portrayal of Hiyama.
— On similarities with his character
I’m really curious about all sorts of things, which makes me similar to the innocent Hiyama. But unfortunately, I don’t have any supernatural abilities like hearing ghosts (laughs). Because we’re so different, it makes the role even more engaging to play.
Another thing we share is speaking Kansai dialect (laughs). I realized again that while it’s easy to speak, it can be hard to memorize in script form. But the scriptwriter, Kazuo Furuya, paid great attention to detail, and since many cast members are also from Kansai, the set has been a lot of fun.
— On filming in Osaka
While I’ve worked in Osaka before, this is my first time filming a drama here for an extended period. Staying in a hotel in Osaka for months, with occasional visits home, feels surreal (laughs).
Seeing familiar places like Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street and Ogimachi Park near Kansai TV reminds me of my junior days and gives me a comforting sense of nostalgia. Being able to lead a drama in the city where I’ve spent so much of my life is something I’m really happy about.
— On his co-stars
Yuka Sugai is the same age as me, which is really motivating. Despite both having lots of lines, we push each other to bring each scene to life.
Ryohei Otani—I’ve definitely known of him! He’s active not just in film and TV but also on stage, so getting to share scenes and dialogue with someone like him is a huge asset for me.
The other day, I wrote ‘What kind of snacks would you like?’ on the whiteboard in the waiting room. While some staff wrote things like ‘cookies,’ there was one response that stood out: ‘Anything’s fine as long as there’s love.’ (laughs) There was no name, but when I thanked Otani-san, he shyly said, ‘I should’ve written it more neatly.’ (laughs)
People call me the ‘lead,’ but I honestly don’t feel that way. While I do try to lead by example, I’m really just supported by an amazing cast. There are so many unique characters in the show—I hope everyone’s looking forward to it.
Joining the cast is also Ryo Hashimoto from B&ZAI, another standout from the STARTO talent family. Hashimoto plays the enigmatic character P.J., whose mysterious actions and deeper emotional burdens unfold as the story progresses. In real life, Fujiwara and Hashimoto developed a genuine friendship on set, despite the complexity of their on-screen relationship. Their behind-the-scenes bond, filled with laughter and mutual respect, adds an extra layer of chemistry to their performances. Fujiwara noted how Hashimoto’s calm presence and thoughtful attitude brought a refreshing dynamic to the set, while Hashimoto expressed admiration for Fujiwara’s ability to command scenes as both lead actor and a supportive team player.
— On what to watch for in the drama
While it has a horror and suspense vibe, the story is rich in emotion and humanity, and every episode keeps you on the edge of your seat.
I’d also love for viewers to pay attention to the camera work. The way fear and tension are conveyed not just through lines or expressions but visually—it’s so realistic you might forget it’s filmed. Laundering really showcases the strength of the team behind it, so please tune in from episode one!
In addition to his starring role in the upcoming Laundering, Fujiwara has already captured audiences worldwide with his vibrant performance in the Japanese sci-fi suspense drama Pending Train, now streaming on Netflix. As Daichi Yonezawa, a cheerful and imaginative aspiring game developer, Fujiwara brings a burst of energy to this gripping tale of survival and time travel. Set in a post-apocalyptic future after a mysterious train derailment, the series features Fujiwara alongside Yuki Yamada, Eiji Akaso, and Moka Kamishiraishi. His performance as Yonezawa adds heart and comic relief, with many reviewers praising him and co-star Kai Inowaki (as scientist Shodai Kato) as the “comedy team” that keeps the series emotionally grounded.
Fujiwara shared, “It was such a privilege working with the other actors, and I feel really confident that overseas Netflix viewers are going to enjoy all the show’s twists and turns!” He noted that Yonezawa’s upbeat personality mirrors his own, although the survival stakes pushed him to tap into deeper emotional territory.
With an equally intriguing storyline, a compelling protagonist, and an electrifying soundtrack, Laundering is set to be one of this summer’s must-watch dramas. Don’t miss Joichiro Fujiwara in this thrilling new role and the powerful sounds of “Black Nightmare.“
Stay seated for the premiere on July 3 and the full unveiling of the theme song!
Stay seated for a colorful adventure like no other, as there will be more Naniwa Danshi coming your way!
Read more Naniwa Danshi from Dumpling Box
![Naniwa Danshi’s [ParinParin House] Shouting about love in the heart of Nagoya | English Subtitles](https://dumplingbox.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/image-35-800x600.png?crop=1)
![[GIVEAWAY!] Naniwa Danshi 1st DOME LIVE ‘VoyAGE’ Goods](https://dumplingbox.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/naniwa-voyage-giveaway-copy-1200x900.jpg?crop=1)
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.