On December 10th, NHK announced the new cast for the NHK Taiga drama "Toyotomi Brothers!" (General TV, Sundays at 8pm and others, with the first episode extended by 15 minutes), starring Nakano Taiga, which will begin airing on January 4th, 2026. It has been revealed that actor Kochi Yamato, who has attracted attention for his eccentric performances in the TBS Sunday Theatre "VIVANT" and the film "Exit 8", will be appearing in the role of Ujiie Naomoto. This will be Kochi's first time appearing in a Taiga drama.
Kawachi commented, "It has been my dream since I started acting to appear in a taiga drama. I am deeply grateful for this precious opportunity. I would like to sincerely portray the quiet courage and pride of the military commander Ujiie Naomoto with my own body and voice. I will do my best to add my whole heart and soul to the production, feeling the breath of history."
Kawachi plays Ujiie Naomoto, one of the Mino Sanninshu. He is not on good terms with his lord, Saito Tatsuoki, and feels a sense of crisis when his advice is not heeded.
"Toyotomi Brothers!" is a success story of hope and dreams, depicting the miracle of the Toyotomi brothers, Hidenaga, the younger brother of "the great ruler of Japan," Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who achieved the great feat of unifying the country through their strong bond. Hidenaga will be played by Nakano, and Hideyoshi by Ikematsu Sosuke. The script will be written by Yatsushi Hiroyuki, known for "Hanzawa Naoki" (TBS) and the Asadora drama "Ochoyan."
