Actor Daiken Okudaira attended a press conference on July 3rd at the NHK Broadcasting Center in Shibuya, Tokyo, for the NHK night drama "The Book Bought with Taxes" (NHK General, Monday-Thursday 10:45 PM), which will begin airing on August 24th. Co-stars Nishino Nanase and Aoki Macho of the comedy duo "Kakeochi" praised Okudaira's leadership skills, as this marks his first leading role in a television drama series.
The drama is a human comedy based on the "library work manga" written by Zui-san and illustrated by Kei Yamamoto, which is currently serialized in "Young Magazine" (Kodansha). It tells the story of Kiichi Ishihira (Okudaira), a tough, rebellious high school student, who grows as a person through his part-time job at the library, where he meets a variety of unique staff members.
When asked about playing the main character, Ishihira, Okudaira said, "I haven't played many delinquent roles before, so I referenced the original character while also consulting with the director about how to strike a balance that is unique to live-action." He reflected on what he focused on in preparing for the role.
When asked what she was conscious of as the lead actress, she replied, "Not at all." "I had the image that as the lead actress, I would have to lead the team and liven things up...but on this set, I didn't have to do any of that. It was very comfortable, and I was impressed that the cast members around me brightened up the set, which I was very grateful for," she said, expressing her gratitude to her co-stars.
In response, Aoki said, "He really pulled me along. His acting and his everyday thoughtfulness made me naturally think, 'This is the lead in the drama, so I want to do my best,'" to which Okudaira replied shyly, "Thank you."
Nishino also praised Okudaira, saying, "She had the most appearances, so I think her schedule was very demanding, but I was amazed that she never showed any signs of fatigue. She was always cheerful."
