Junior Taiki Konno, who is a member and leader of the eight-member group B&ZAI, and actress Shiho Kato, who graduated from Hinatazaka46‘s 1st generation, will co-lead the romantic comedy “Sono Tensai-sama wa Gisou Kanojo ni Shuuchaku Suru” (その天才様は偽装彼女に執着する), which will air every Thursday in the CBC TV “Drama Trip” slot at 12:58 AM (JST) starting April 23. Adapted from the manga of the same name by Chikafuji, which has total sales of 600 million yen and over 900,000 copies in circulation, this work marks Taiki‘s first time leading a serial drama.
The story follows Rin Hoshino, a 29-year-old woman with no boyfriend and no job, standing at the edge of desperation. Determined to change her life, she throws herself into matchmaking activities in search of new encounters, only for everything to be ruined by the sudden appearance of a mysterious, insensitive man. One day, at her brother’s request, Rin agrees to temporarily work as a housekeeping helper for an “elite programmer.” However, the man she ends up working for turns out to be Iku Wakatsuki, the same man who ruined her earlier efforts. Thus begins a “devoted romantic comedy” starting from a contractual fake relationship, featuring the pairing of a solitary genius programmer and a kind but unlucky woman who can’t help taking care of others.
Along with the announcement, character visuals were also revealed. Taiki appears dressed in a suit, presenting a refined look befitting a brilliant programmer, and he is challenging himself with a character unlike any he has played before in other media. Shiho, on the other hand, wears a glamorous dress, beautifully expressing the pure and straightforward image of Rin from the source material.
A newly drawn illustration by Ken Murayama, the manga’s artist, has also been unveiled, created specifically for this announcement.
In addition, a teaser video has been published on the CBC official YouTube channel, as well as its official social media accounts. The drama will air on CBC TV, and will be available for catch-up streaming on TVer after the local broadcast.
Comments
Taiki Konno
“I’m Taiki Konno from B&ZAI. Appearing in a drama has always been a dream of mine, so when I received this offer I was surprised and thought, ‘I’m the lead in a serial drama?!’ I read the original work many times and did my best to portray my own version of Iku Wakatsuki. I’d be very happy if many people enjoy watching it.”
Shiho Kato
“My name is Shiho Kato, and I will be playing Rin Hoshino! As soon as I heard about the project, I read the original manga and found so many heart-fluttering scenes that made me blush. I was really captivated by Rin-chan’s earnest personality. The drama is also packed with moments that will make you smile and feel that flutter in your heart. Please look forward to the broadcast!”
Manga Artist Ken Murayama
“I feel deeply honored to have received the opportunity for a live-action adaptation.
This wonderful chance was made possible thanks to the original author, Chikafuji-sensei, who created such a charming story, as well as the editorial team and everyone who supported the work. I’m truly happy to have been involved as the artist. Please look forward to the new expressions that only a live-action version can offer.”
Original Author Chikafuji
“When the series first began, I never imagined it would be adapted into another medium, so I was extremely surprised when I heard about the drama adaptation. I’m very grateful for this precious opportunity. Thanks to the support and efforts of the cast, the production team, the editorial department, and many others, I believe the drama is filled with the special charm that only live action can bring. I hope you’ll also enjoy the drama version of ‘Tensai-sama!’“