It has been revealed that the sequel to the drama series W-30 "Draft King" (WOWOW), which aired in 2023 starring actor Muro Tsuyoshi, "Draft King -BORDER LINE-" will begin airing in May.
"Draft King" is a popular manga serialized in "Grand Jump" (Shueisha) by Tetsuro Kuromatsu, known for works such as "Bake" and "A Bouquet for the Baseball Club." The story follows Gohara Aura, a scout for the Yokohama Baygoals, played by Muro, who uses his keen eye to discover hidden talent and sets out to acquire the number one "Draft King" among all the draft-selected players.
Furthermore, it has been revealed that the cast from the previous series will be continuing to appear, including Miyazawa Hio as Kamiki Ryosuke, a former professional player scout who grew as a player while working alongside Gohara. Other cast members who will be appearing in the series include Denden as Shimobe Rikuo, the warm-hearted head of the scouting department, Uechi Yusuke as Otsu Ryosuke, Hirayama Yusuke as Iizuka Ken, Kawakubo Takuji as Ogoe Tomonari, the head of the scouting department, Sakata Masanobu as GM Tsutsui Takashi, Ibu Masato as Busujima Ryuji, a skilled scout for the rival baseball team, the Osaka White Tigers, and Fujima Sawako as freelance writer Mishima Hitomi.
"Draft King -Border Line-" will be broadcast and streamed every Friday at 11pm starting May 15th. There will be a total of 10 episodes.
◇Comment from Tsuyoshi Muro
I was a big fan of the original "Draft King." I told my manager that if they made it into a movie, I'd like to be an actor who could take part, and he said, "Actually, we've been approached." I then starred in Season 1 as Gohara, and since then, many baseball fans, and even people who aren't that knowledgeable about baseball, have watched it, and I've received many kind comments and positive feedback. From the time of filming, it was a work that made me think of a sequel. And when the sequel, BORDER LINE, was decided, my shoulders were already warm. I had been practicing, so I promise to swing with all my might, along with the joy of stepping up to the plate. After a full-on filming, I can tell you with great confidence. "Draft King - BORDER LINE" is in top form. Look forward to that swing and my handling on the mound. This comment is a preview of a home run. Everyone, please take care of yourself. Until the day we can meet again as Draft King Gohara. Muro Tsuyoshi
◇Comment from Miyazawa Hio
I am filled with joy at the production of "BORDER LINE," the sequel to "Draft King." When I heard that the series was being revived after a three-year hiatus, I was very curious to see what story it would tell. As many of you may know, the original comic has many wonderful stories. Among them, we have selected a special story to turn into a drama in this sequel. One of the highlights is the growth of the scout Kamiki, played by me. In the previous work, as a rookie, he was pushed around by senior scouts such as Gohara. You will be able to see Kamiki grow up a little. Please look forward to the broadcast!
◇Comment from the original author, Tetsuro Kuromatsu
I am thrilled that this manga will once again be adapted into a live-action film under the title "Draft King -Borderline-." I myself was far from the borderline, a wimpy high school baseball player who was weak in both opportunities and difficult situations. So, in a sense, this work is like a hawk born from a kite. The cast's play is truly exceptional. When I had the opportunity to observe the filming of "Draft King" three years ago, I was amazed at the high level of play, but this time it was even more incredible. True to the title, there were plenty of players who seemed to be on the borderline, and I was deeply moved by the love of baseball on set. When I first began drawing this manga, I wanted to portray three themes: "Professional baseball players are amazing," "Baseball is fun," and "Old men are cool." I believe the live-action version brings these themes even more vividly to the screen. I hope everyone, both those who aren't particularly interested in baseball and baseball fans, will watch it. I can't wait. Three years ago was also the year the World Baseball Classic was held. This year, the WBC is sure to excite the world again. Every superstar was originally an amateur player. Thank you for breathing life into this drama. Good luck to all baseball players.
◇Comment from Director Toru Yamamoto
When Draft King first aired, we received many passionate messages, such as "It's fun," "The baseball is real," and "I was moved." Three years have passed since then. When we heard that "BORDER LINE" was going to be produced, our hearts pounded! The staff and cast reunited, and the days of filming, where everyone played baseball, were pure happiness. This sparkling treasure was created through the hard work of veterans and new friends! We aimed to carefully portray the families, baseball players, and scouts who warmly watch over the players, who sometimes get lost and suffer. The players play with all their might. We made sure to thoroughly preserve the kindness of the original work. We have created a work that will send warm encouragement not only to baseball fans, but to troubled young people and many modern people looking for a place to belong. We hope you will all look forward to it!!
