The 'Gasa-hime Team': A Mix of Generations and Personalities

Crank-in was finally here! Right from the costume fitting, I wanted to break away from the typical image of female detectives always in suits. So, I chose very casual outfits. Standing next to Koji Matoba, my co-star in the Gasa-hime team, I might not look like a detective at all. You might even mistake me for one of the suspects! I'm usually quite casual, but for the sacred act of a raid—a house search—it's formal attire! So, I’m sharply dressed in a suit for those moments (laughs).





Besides Matoba-san, the Gasa-hime team includes Hiroaki Iwanaga, misono, and Ryū Taida. It’s a remarkable ensemble of diverse characters from various generations.

Matoba-san’s earnest approach, Iwanaga-kun’s solid, rugged presence, misono-chan’s positive energy, and the veteran Ryū Taida… they truly felt like real detectives. I almost wanted to call him 'Gori-san' (laughs). Even in challenging conditions, Ryū-san always watched over us with such kindness. His presence alone brought a sense of security. The scene where the five of us walked briskly in a line was so cool and exhilarating!

An Astonishingly Great Teamwork!

Actually, casting for the role of the 'bright and energetic young female detective' subordinate was proving difficult. I suggested misono. The staff seemed surprised by a casting choice from such an unexpected direction, but they found it intriguing and immediately checked her availability. It was a tight schedule, so much so that the script was already being printed with the old cast list, and unfortunately, misono’s name didn’t make it. But...

The reason I thought of misono was that I’d seen her in a musical before, and it was absolutely fantastic! It stayed with me, and I suddenly remembered her. We’d never met before (laughs). But when misono heard about this role, she said, 'I absolutely have to do it!' and agreed to join.





Everyone else was also a first-time co-star for me, yet why did I feel so comfortable? It was as if I’d known them all for ages. The teamwork was incredibly, surprisingly excellent. The director, the cinematographer, the entire on-site staff—everyone was driven by a passion to make the project even better, which was a great source of strength for me.

Starring in a drama involves significant responsibility, including managing my own health amidst a demanding schedule. It’s truly challenging, and I realize I couldn’t do it without everyone’s help. I’m deeply grateful for their kindness. There are strong calls from the set for a series, and I wholeheartedly agree. 'Keiji Gasa-hime' is scheduled to air this summer. Please look forward to it!