Osamu Suzuki, who retired from his work as a television writer and scriptwriter in March last year, attended a press conference for the drama series "Ubai Ai, Manatsu" (TV Asahi, Friday 11:15pm *excluding some regions) held on July 18th at TV Asahi headquarters (Minato Ward, Tokyo). Suzuki, the creator of the series, had promised the production team a sequel even before announcing his retirement, and this time he took up his pen specially. Suzuki spoke about his thoughts on the series, which is based on the theme of adultery.
The "Ubai Ai" series is a hot topic every time due to its messy love-hate drama and the strange performances of the cast. Suzuki said, "It's been a while since I last wrote a drama, but I've written another one that I can't show my son," drawing laughter from the audience. He then appealed, "It's messy again (laughs). But it's an interesting work, so please check it out."
When lead actress Marika Matsumoto introduced the role as having many memorable lines, Suzuki said, "If we're making a drama for TV, I want to somehow grab the attention of the viewers. I'm well aware that some of the lines are quite outrageous, but I think you can say it's Matsumoto." Matsumoto also expressed her gratitude, saying, "She's giving us such a wonderful challenge."
Regarding the work, in which the main character has an affair, he said, "Affair is bad, isn't it? There are people who have really been left with broken families and are suffering. In the drama, a huge punishment is inflicted on (the main character), but at the end, I want to properly give my own "answer" to what it means to love someone even if it means taking risks. It's entertainment, so I'm having fun with it, but I do want to convey a message," he said, adding, "I have no intention of glamorizing (affairs)."
Also attending the press conference were Matsumoto's co-star Ken Yasuda Ken, Maryjun Takahashi, Shirahama Alan, and Mori Kasumi.
The drama is about Umino Manatsu (Matsumoto), who after breaking up with her lover, changes jobs from a photo magazine reporter to a PR manager at the watch manufacturer "TOWANI". However, TOWANI's president, Sorachi Taimu (Yasuda), looks just like her ex-boyfriend. Even though Taimu has a wife, Mirai (Takahashi), she falls in forbidden love... The story will start on the 18th.
