Actor Kenichi Matsuyama appeared at a press conference held in Tokyo on April 4th for the TBS Tuesday drama "Toki Sude ni Osushi!?" (Tuesdays at 10 PM, starting April 7th), starring Hiromi Nagasaku. When asked about playing a pastry chef in the Sunday drama "Reboot," which aired until March, and now playing a sushi academy instructor in this drama, Matsuyama humorously replied, "I've been learning about sushi since last year, and last year I also got to make cakes (as part of the role). When I start to forget my lines a little, I think I'll retire and open a 'sushi cake shop' or something," which drew laughter from the audience.
Matsuyama smiled and said, "I think it would be great if we could serve cake after a good sushi meal, like the Hayase Shortcake that appeared in 'Reboot'." When the MC then asked if he could make a sushi cake, Matsuyama replied, "I'd like to consult with the master chef (who is in charge of sushi supervision for this film) and see if it's possible," drawing laughter once again.
At this point, First Summer Uika revealed Matsuyama's behavior, saying, "During breaks, while everyone else is memorizing their lines, (Matsuyama) keeps pretending to be Ryohei Suzuki, saying things like, 'Today is the release of "TOKYO MER"' (laughs). He's a really busy Oedo-sensei." This revelation caused the other cast members to burst into laughter.
When asked about working with Nagasaku again after 18 years, Matsuyama said, "Last time, Nagasaku was the teacher and I was the student. This time, it's the other way around, and I'm the teacher and Nagasaku is the student. I hope we can reminisce about that time and get closer and express our emotions more. I'm hoping that a romance will blossom from there," he said, adding a touch of his wish. Nagasaku responded with a smile, "I'm sorry... I seem to be in good spirits today and my chatter is going very smoothly (laughs). I'm glad Matsuyama is in good spirits."
The drama is an original work with a script by Ruri Hyodo, known for works such as "My Diary" and "My Worst Friend." The story follows Minato Machiyama (Nagasaku), who, having finished raising her children, is bewildered by the newfound free time she has at the age of 50, but begins her second life and jumps into a "sushi academy" where she can become a sushi chef in three months.
Motoki Nakazawa, Soma Santoki, and Shiro Sano also attended the press conference.
