Ishizaka Koji to star in new TV Asahi afternoon drama "Yasuragi no Sato"

Ishizaka Koji will be starring in the new TV Asahi afternoon drama "Yasuragi no Sato" (The hometown of peacefulness) which is an afternoon drama series targeted at the elderly and written by Kuramoto Sou. The drama which begins its run from 3 April on weekdays from 12.30pm to 12.50pm, is the first production in this newly-created timeslot. As the night primetime slots usually feature dramas meant for the younger generation, Kuramoto came up with the idea of making a silvertime drama.

The drama is set in an old folks' home named Yasuragi no Sato La Strada where only those who had worked in the TV entertainment industry such as actors, writers, musicians and artists are allowed to live at. Ishizaka plays Kikumura Sakae who used to be a popular scenario writer and lives among the stars of yesterday together at the old folks' home where the problems they face are presented in a humourous manner. At the entrance of the home, the residents display their photos in mourning wear as if they are at a funeral of a fellow actor. Co-stars include Asaoka Ruriko, Arima Ineko, Kaga Mariko, Satsuki Midori, Nogiwa Yoko, Yachigusa Kaoru, Fuji Tatsuya, Mickey Curtis, Yamamoto Kei, Kusakari Tamiyo, Tokiwa Takako, Nadaka Tatsuo, Fubuki Jun and Matsuoka Mayu.

Ishizaka commented that as this is a theme which is hardly described in other dramas, he feels as if they are pioneers in this field and hopes to contribute to efforts making more varied TV programmes which need the support of the viewers. Asaoka who plays Shirakawa Saeko and used to nicknamed "Ojousama", commented that it's difficult to get such a role at her age so she feels as if this is the last chance she can get something like this. Likewise for Kaga who plays Mizutani Maya and is constantly at odds with Saeko, commented that it's interesting to have such a wonderful cast lineup with Kuramoto's script so she feels it will be fine even if this becomes her last work.

Sources: Sponichi / Oricon / TV Asahi