Fifth Cast Wave for NHK Drama 'Blassam' Announced: Heroine's Siblings Revealed

NHK has announced the fifth batch of cast members for the upcoming asadora (morning drama) 'Blassam', set to premiere in autumn 2026. Hidemasa Hidari, Aoi Ito, and Takayuki Fujihara have been cast as the siblings of the heroine Yano Tamaki, played by Shizuka Ishibashi. The series is based on the life of writer Uno Chiyoko, who lived through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras, though presented as a fictionalized account.

Hidari takes on the role of Yano Mamoru, the eldest son of the Yano family, described as a caring and responsible figure who provides support to his loved ones. For Hidari, this marks his debut in a consecutive television novel series. Ito plays Yano Toshiko, the second daughter, who works in a factory to support the family while admiring her elder sister Tamaki. Fujihara portrays Yano Hideo, the youngest son, making his asadora debut with the role. Both Hidari and Fujihara expressed enthusiasm about joining the production.

According to production director Shunpei Murayama, the siblings grew up in Iwakuni and face various conflicts before reuniting with Tamaki, setting the stage for a new chapter in her life. The drama follows Yano Tamaki as she navigates hardship while pursuing a career as a writer. The series is written by Go Sakurai and Yoshi Komatsu, with production underway for the autumn 2026 broadcast.