The new cast for the NHK morning drama "Kaze, Kaoru," starring Ai Mikami and Juri Uesaka, which will air in the first half of 2026, has been announced on the drama's official website (@asadora_nhk), and it has been revealed that actor Michitaka Tsutsui will be appearing. This will be his first appearance in an morning drama in 26 years, since "Watashi no Aozora" in the first half of 2000.
Tsutsui plays Tada Jutaro, the director of Teito Medical University Hospital. He seems to have a certain understanding of "nursing," but his true intentions are unclear.
Tsutsui commented, "I am honored to be able to take part in a morning drama again after such a long time. I will do my best so as not to bring shame to a time slot that has been loved by everyone for so long." He continued, "The story takes place in the Meiji era, about 150 years ago. It was an era when days had 24 hours, years had 365 days, and elections and the Diet first began. I like the characters for the word "Meiji era." I interpret it as 'an era of bright governance.' It must have been no easy task to save people's lives with Western medicine in those chaotic times, just after the end of the Edo period. I will do my best so as not to disrespect the efforts of our predecessors."
"Kaze, Kaoru" is the 114th serial TV drama. Set in the Meiji era, it is a buddy drama featuring two trained nurses, Ozeki Chika and Suzuki Masa, as its two protagonists. The two graduated from the same nursing school, but struggle with how to interact with patients and doctors, and grow through clashes, eventually becoming the "strongest buddy." Migami plays the lead role of Ichinose Rin, while Uesaka plays Oya Naomi.
