It has been revealed that actor Satoshi Tsumabuki will be starring in the October TBS Sunday Theatre drama "The Royal Family" (Sundays at 9pm). Set in the world of horse racing, the drama tells the epic 20-year story of a man and a racehorse who create miracles through the bonds of family and friends.
Based on the novel of the same name by Kazuma Hayami, Tsukamoto plays the role of tax accountant Eiji Kurisu. Kurisu has always respected his father, who runs a tax accounting firm, but after a certain incident, he experiences setbacks as a tax accountant and loses hope. However, when he meets Sanno Kozo, a horse owner, his life, which had come to a sudden halt, begins to move forward... This is the story.
The production will be directed by Ayuko Tsukahara, who has also directed films such as "The Last Mile" (2024) and "Grand Maison Paris" (2024). Filming will be done with the full cooperation of the Japan Racing Association (JRA), and the impressive footage shot at an actual racecourse will be a highlight.
◇Comment from Satoshi Tsumabuki
This story is about the inheritance of horses and humans, and I was really happy to be able to portray such a magnificent story in a drama. Also, I've always been good friends with the original author, Hayami-san, and she told me, "I really want you to play the role of Kurisu," so being needed is a happy moment for an actor, so I was very happy.
It's rare to find a production filled with so much love and hope, so I'm truly honored to be involved in this drama as a member of this family, and I'm really looking forward to filming. In every era, there is hope for the future that is passed down. What do we think about and entrust to the next generation? I hope that you will all be living witnesses to this and watch over the moving moments. I'm sure it will awaken the passion hidden within you all.
◇ Comment from producer Shoichi Kato
This drama tells the story of 20 years of dreams and passion of people involved in horse racing. In these days when many people are said to be anxious about the future and struggling to live, it feels like it is becoming more difficult to even imagine or talk about dreams.
The main characters of this drama have big dreams for their racehorses and face various challenges. When they come up against an insurmountable wall, they turn their bonds with family and friends and connections between people into strength to overcome the obstacles.
This work was also born from "connections between people." My encounter with Hayami-sensei's wonderful original work, the wonderful cast including Tsukamoto-san, and the reliable staff all came together thanks to the connections I had made up until now.
We have also received a great deal of cooperation from not only the JRA but also horse owners, trainers, jockeys and other people involved in horse racing, starting with personal connections. We hope to present a drama on Sunday night that will inspire people to talk about their dreams without shyness.
◇Comment from Director Ayuko Tsukahara
We will deliver a passionate story filled with love and vitality to you, along with a wonderful cast led by Tsukamoto. The entire staff is racking their brains over how to express the magnificent worldview of the original work, but with the support of everyone involved in horse racing, we will do our best to create a new visual experience with the beautiful scenery of Hokkaido. Be sure to tune in in the fall of 2025!
◇Comment from original author Kazuma Hayami
I've always thought that if "The Royal Family" were to be made into a film, the only place it could be aired would be on Sunday Theatre. It's an incredible script, and we've assembled a cast and staff that I'm truly excited about. I have no intention of just throwing it away and saying, "I'm looking forward to it." As a member of the "original writing team," I want to continue to be involved so that we can deliver a wonderful drama.
