It has been revealed that actress Sairi Ito will appear in the drama series "Our Hakone Ekiden" (Nippon Television Network), starring Yo Oizumi. Ito, who will play the center director, a key figure on set in charge of the live broadcast of the Hakone Ekiden, said, "I think it will really become an incredible work that will become a legend."
Based on the novel of the same name by Jun Ikeido, the story follows Meisei Gakuin University, a prestigious university that has missed out on participating in the Hakone Ekiden main race for two consecutive years. To compete in the Hakone Ekiden, they must pass the qualifying round held in October. Will Meisei Gakuin be able to run on the Hakone course? Meanwhile, an unexpected situation is occurring at the television station responsible for the live broadcast... The story follows Oizumi as Ryo Tokushige, the chief producer of the television station in charge of the live broadcast of the Hakone Ekiden.
Natsuki Miyamoto, played by Ito, is a cool center director in charge of the live broadcast of the Hakone Ekiden. In her first major role as the center director of a nationally important live broadcast where failure is not an option, she tries so hard to live up to expectations that she sometimes clashes with those around her.
"This role is a little different from the roles I've played before; she's not the type to show her emotions outwardly. It's an unusual role for me," says Ito. In preparation for the role, she visited the sub-control room, where the center directors work, to observe the live broadcast of this year's Hakone Ekiden. "I was able to see what kind of movements were being made and get a feel for the atmosphere on set. I felt the incredible energy firsthand, and even though it's a drama, it made me determined to take on the role," she says. "I got to see a really great set at the beginning of the year, so I hope I can show that coolness through the drama."
Regarding his co-star Oizumi, he commented, "I heard he's aiming for the number one spot in the 'Ideal Boss' ranking (laughs), but I think he could easily achieve that because he's always paying close attention to those around him." He continued, "Rather than strongly leading by saying 'Let's do it,' he leads by example with his own back and attitude. That's why you naturally want to follow him." He added, "Even while we were waiting, he spoke to each person individually, creating a comfortable atmosphere for everyone. I felt he had the qualities of a leader, and I truly think he's an ideal boss."
Ito commented on the work, saying, "When I read the script from beginning to end, I was moved more than I ever expected. I don't usually have to hold back tears when reading scripts, but this time, I was overcome with emotion many times... I was surprised that I could get so worked up just by reading the words." She added, "Whether you're someone who watches the Hakone Ekiden every year or someone who hasn't watched it before, this drama is full of things like, 'There was a battle like this,' and 'They were running with these kinds of feelings on their shoulders,' and I'm confident that just that alone will make the time you spend watching this drama a wonderful experience. Please look forward to it."
"Our Hakone Ekiden" will be broadcast as a drama series on Nippon Television Network in October. The broadcast slot is yet to be determined.
