Masaya Sano (Ae! group), is set to make his debut as a lead actor in a terrestrial TV drama with the highly anticipated series Rikon Kouya (Divorce Night). The drama, which will air in ABC Television’s October lineup, is based on the hugely popular webtoon that has garnered over 40 million views on LINE Manga. Masaya will portray Iori Houjou, a college student who is deeply devoted to his first love.

Rikon Kouya is a webtoon masterpiece created by *Aira* and taskey STUDIO, and as of August 2024, it has exceeded 40 million page views, making it a massive hit. The story is a captivating Cinderella tale where the heroine, Kaho, decides to divorce her excessively controlling husband and falls in love with Iori, a college student who works part-time at a café she frequents. The drama will focus on the pure and heartfelt love story between Iori and Kaho.

Masaya’s character, Iori, is the heir to a large corporation, yet he is clumsy when it comes to love. Despite his privileged background, he finds himself overwhelmed by the emotions of first love after meeting Kaho, a regular customer at the café. This role marks Masaya’s first time leading a terrestrial drama, but his strong presence in previous films and variety shows has already earned him a solid reputation. His portrayal of the innocent and pure-hearted college student is eagerly awaited by fans and critics alike.

Masaya recounted his reaction upon learning about his new role: “When I first heard about it, I was shocked! I was having lunch with the rest of Ae! group when I asked my manager, ‘What does my schedule look like for September?’ and he casually mentioned, ‘You’re starring in a drama.’ The others were thrilled, but I wish I had been told about it a bit more clearly (laughs). The shrimp fry and hamburger I was eating at the time have since become my lucky meal.“

Furthermore, the drama’s theme song will be a new ballad titled “Never End,” performed by Ae! group. This song, characterized by its beautiful melody and lyrics expressing pure and heartfelt love, is set to add an emotional and dramatic layer to the series.

The show will premiere on ABC Television on October 13 (Sundays at 12:10 AM) and on TV Asahi on October 12 (Saturdays at 2:30 AM).

Full Comments from Masaya Sano:

What was your impression of the title “Rikon Goya?”

“When I first heard the title, I imagined a heavy, serious story, so I read the original work. The more I read, the more I realized it’s a sweet and pure first love story… I got hooked on it just as a fan. The impression I had when I first heard the title and after finishing the story was completely different. It’s a wonderful work. In the drama, the focus is on Iori’s ‘pure love,’ so I’m really looking forward to it.”

Can you tell us about your character, Iori?

“Iori was born into a wealthy family and raised with care, which affects how he interacts with others and makes him reluctant to show his emotions. He has a complex character with these two contrasting sides. The drama delves deeper into Iori’s inner world than the original work did, which made me struggle at first. During the script reading, the director mentioned the word ‘puppy-like,’ and that helped me understand the balance between his cool side and his more affectionate side. It’s crucial to show these changes in expression depending on the scene or who he’s interacting with, so I plan to prepare thoroughly. There are also many sweet lines that I never thought I’d ever say in my life! Conveying that sweetness in a real and believable way is going to be a challenge.”

What is the appeal of acting for you right now?

“I’ve loved acting ever since I was a kid, performing on stage, but I’ve always had a bit of a fear of acting in front of the camera. I thought drama and film would be difficult since I was so focused on stage performances. However, I started to find the joy in acting through ABC Television’s “Jimoto ni Kaerenai Wakeari Danshi no 14 no Jijo” and “Toshishita Kareshi.” Recently, many actors have passionately shared their love for acting with me, and my enthusiasm for it has grown. I’m incredibly grateful to be able to take on my first leading role in a drama at this moment.”

Can you tell us about the theme song?

“It’s a love ballad, something Ae! group hasn’t done before. The song reflects the protagonist’s feelings as he warms up his dull everyday life with thoughts of someone special. I’m excited for our fans, and many others, to hear these heartfelt lyrics performed by the five of us.”

Lastly, do you have a message for the viewers?

“Ae! group doesn’t often get the chance to do idol-like things (laughs), and I always thought I was more of the ‘comedic’ type, so I never imagined I’d be in a pure love story like this. I’m committed to delivering a beautiful piece of work that won’t disappoint you!”