The new cast for the NHK morning drama "Kaze, Kaoru," starring Ai Mikami and Juri Uesaka, which will air in the first half of 2026, has been announced on the drama's official account (@asadora_nhk), and it has been revealed that model and actor Akiko Kikuchi will be joining the cast. Kikuchi, making her first appearance in an morning drama, will play Izumi Kiyo, a classmate from the training school.
Kiyo, played by Kikuchi, is the oldest of the classmates. She is a devout Christian and has been divorced in the past. She is generous and quietly watches over her classmates.
Kikuchi said, "This is my first time appearing in a morning drama, and I feel very happy and dazzled. I was a little hesitant to play a student at my age, but I thought this was exactly the feelings of Kiyo, the character I play. Kiyo has given me the courage and joy to take on challenges regardless of age. I would like to cherish the days spent with my cute and lovable school friends as I portray her."
He continued, "I think morning dramas are like the morning sun. Mornings aren't always healthy, and some days are gloomy and dull, but just like opening the curtains can lift your spirits, the moment you hear the theme song of a morning drama, your mind starts to feel lighter and more energetic. I think that's the effect it has."
"Kaze, Kaoru" is the 114th serial TV drama. Set in the Meiji era, it is a buddy drama featuring two trained nurses, Ozeki Chika and Suzuki Masa, as its two protagonists. The two graduated from the same nursing school, but struggle with how to interact with patients and doctors, and grow through clashes, eventually becoming the "strongest buddy." Migami plays the lead role of Ichinose Rin, while Uesaka plays Oya Naomi.
