Sumire Yokono, who is active as an actress and talent, is playing the heroine Nagisa Aitachi in the drama "Inukai-san is a Secretly Doting Boss" currently airing on TOKYO MX. The story follows Nagisa (Yokono), who thinks of herself as a "supporting character" because she is constantly compared to her younger sister, a famous influencer, until she receives a sudden kiss and a sweet confession from her perfect and cool boss, Inori Inukai (Yu Miyazawa). Yokono, who has often played "villainess" roles in the past, is taking on the challenge of playing a pure and innocent heroine for the first time.
Yokono commented, "To be honest, it didn't really sink in until the day of the broadcast, so right now I have this strange, floating feeling. But seeing everyone who always supports me and those who are supporting me close by saying they're looking forward to it, I'm gradually feeling a sense of joy. It's my first time playing the heroine in a romance drama, so to be honest, I feel a little embarrassed (laughs). But more than that, I'm filled with excitement to deliver this work, which we've put so much care into creating, to everyone as soon as possible!"
Regarding the work, he said, "The highlight is Inukai's cool yet somewhat clumsy side, which is just so cute! You'll find yourself swooning over their innocent interactions. Of course, their doting love intensifies as the story progresses, but there are also plenty of steamy, mature scenes that will make you wonder, 'Is it really okay to show this much!?' I hope you'll pay attention to the wide range of emotions, from pure, heart-pounding moments to intense scenes that will leave you breathless!"
On playing her first innocent heroine, she said, "This role is the complete opposite of the 'villain' image I've had to play in the seven or so roles I've played so far, so I feel like I've been given a valuable opportunity to show a new side of myself. The character I play, Nagisa, is introverted, but I heard from the original author, Itosugi Tsune, that Nagisa is an INFJ in MBTI. In fact, I'm also an INFJ, so the moment I found that out, I felt an instant connection! There are so many things about her that I can relate to and empathize with, such as how she's reserved but has a strong core inside, so I was able to act naturally and empathize with her feelings."
"Thank you so much for your continued warm support! Hearing you all say, 'I'm looking forward to it!' gives me the most power. This time, I'm taking on my first leading role and a new character, so I'm a little nervous, but it's a very important project that I've worked hard on. I'm confident that it will be enjoyable for both those who know me from before and those who are watching for the first time! Please immerse yourselves in the world of the drama. Also, a special version depicting the romance between the two characters in more depth will be streamed on DMM TV, so please check that out as well!" she urged.
