The 41st episode of the NHK Asadora drama "Bakebake " (General TV, Monday to Saturday 8:00 AM and others), starring Akari Takaishi, was broadcast on November 24th, and featured the first appearance of Eto Rio, the daughter of the Shimane Prefecture governor, played by actress Kana Kita, which became a hot topic among viewers.
In episode 41, Heaven (Tommy Bastow) and Nishikori (Ryo Yoshizawa) are guided by the Governor (Shiro Sano) to visit Gesshoji Temple.
Just then, the governor's daughter, Rio, arrives late. Heaven offers her hand to Rio as she climbs the stone steps, and she murmurs, "Thank you," with a dreamy expression. Rio, who learned English at a girls' school in Tokyo, actively communicates with Heaven, leaving Nishikori and the governor out of the loop. Rio leads Heaven to a stone statue of a giant turtle at the temple. When the governor tells her the legend of the giant turtle, Heaven becomes so engrossed in the statue that she forgets about Rio.
A few days later, Rio comes to visit Toki (Takaishi), who is working hard as a maid. Rio brings a Japanese-style "uguisu" (Japanese bush warbler) as a gift for Heaven, who loves Japan. Rio laughs and says, "That said, I don't like bush warblers at all. If I had to choose a bird, I'd say the turkey they serve at parties is my favorite!"
Rio asks Toki, "By the way, are you my rival?" Toki, who doesn't speak English, doesn't know the meaning of "rival" and replies that from the sound of it, he doesn't think he's a rival. Rio then reveals, "Ever since I met you for the first time the other day, I haven't been able to get you out of my head. Even when I'm awake or asleep... What I mean is... I really admire you," and asks, "That's why I want your cooperation! But don't tell the teacher. Keep it a secret, okay?"
Riyo appeared in a gorgeous kimono and carrying a parasol. Her unique character drew attention, as she whispered "Shut up" to her father, the governor, and spoke in a mix of English words like "unbelievable" and "rival." On social media, people were saying things like, "She made a big impact from her first appearance," "She's an interesting woman," "Riyo-san is six times more eccentric and cute than I imagined," "A silly beauty has appeared, lol," "Riyo-sama is a funny person, so I hope she becomes friends with Toki," "She has a great presence!" and "Kana Kita is amazing, as she can play such a versatile role."
