It was revealed on March 3rd that actor Tori Matsuzaka will play the lead role in the 2027 NHK Taiga drama "Gyakuzoku no Bakushin." The announcement was made at a press conference held at the station in Shibuya, Tokyo on the same day. Matsuzaka will play Oguri Tadamasa, who promoted various reforms, including the establishment of Japan's first joint-stock company.
Matsuzaka said, "I am very nervous. I never thought for a moment that the day would come when I would be able to play the lead role in a taiga drama."
He continued, "I was worried about whether I could do it, but I'm excited to see what kind of production it will be, and I think it's an entertaining piece that can make people feel a little better about going to work or school on Monday. I'm going to open up all of my drawers, including all of my different experiences and knowledge, and pour it all into this production."
The protagonist, Shogunate vassal Oguri Kozukenosuke Tadamasa, was said to be a rival of Katsu Kaishu. He was Japan's first envoy to the United States, experienced the civilization of a new era, and was a genius of the Edo Shogunate who designed a new shape for the country. However, he was labeled a "traitor" by the new Meiji government and buried in the darkness of history, depicting the unknown exploits of this Shogunate vassal in this thrilling, heartwarming entertainment. The script was written by Naoko Adachi, who is known for her work on the TV drama "What Did You Eat Yesterday?" and the TV drama series "Okaeri Mone."
