Two new cast members announced for the NHK morning drama series "Blossom"

New cast members for the 2026 NHK Asadora drama series "Blossom, " starring actress Shizuka Ishibashi , were announced on March 19th. It was revealed that Mariko Kaga and Takako Matsu will appear as the protagonist, Tama Hano (Ishibashi), who becomes a bestselling author after turning 80, and as her secretary who has supported her both professionally and personally for many years. This marks Kaga's first appearance in a morning drama in 22 years since "Tenka" in the first half of 2004, and Matsu's first appearance in a Asadora.

Kaga will play Tama Hano in the 1980s. Even now, as a popular author, she continues to write every day and remains very active.

Matsu plays Fujikawa Yuko, Tama's secretary. She lives with Tama both professionally and personally, and continues to support her.

Ishibashi, who plays the main character Tama, said, "Knowing that the two of you are standing at the end of Tama's life makes me feel like I can run full speed ahead without fear of the ups and downs of Tama's life. When you can't see the finish line, you tend to feel anxious and wonder if you're on the right path, but if you can imagine your future self smiling and watching over you, that will become a great source of strength to move forward. Hearing your names gave me a lot of courage. I am overjoyed that these senior actors are appearing, and I feel refreshed, as if they will give me a perfect score for all my successes and failures."

Shunpei Murayama, the production supervisor, commented, "Mariko Kaga will play Tama Hano, a writer who, even at over 80 years old, remains active and continues to write, wishing to live like the 'flower-blooming grandmother' who brings happiness. Takako Matsu will play Yuko Fujikawa, Tama's secretary who supports her life. We have now announced these two cast members who will envelop the entire story. Tama Hano, played by Shizuka Ishibashi, moves forward despite being tossed about by rough waves. As figures who can feel the faint light ahead, the two of them stand naturally and unwavering, and I believe that they will leave viewers with a rich feeling. We are very happy that they will be joining us for ' Blossom,' and as a team, we feel a renewed sense of responsibility. Please look forward to it."

"Blossom" is a story modeled after Chiyo Uno, a writer who lived through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras and constantly sought freedom. The protagonist, Tama Hano, leaves her hometown of Iwakuni, Yamaguchi, and, through encounters with fascinating people, pursues her dreams and plunges into the turbulent times of the Taisho and Showa eras. The screenplay is written by Tsuyoshi Sakurai, known for works such as "Your Things Are Here" and "Boogie Woogie."