SMAP’s Nakai Masahiro starred in the popular drama “Ajichimonme” 15 years ago in 1995, now he is starring in the special for the series. The last special aired back in 1998, which is roughly 12 years ago. Nakai commented, “I am sort of getting old. When I watch the videos of myself when I was 22 or 23 years old, I look extremely skinny, but healthy.”

The first series of Ajiichimonme aired in January of 1995 on Thursdays, the second series aired in 1996, and in 1997 and 1998 drama specials aired. This series gained popularity because it depicts a success story of an apprentice chef that overcomes barriers and along the way getting help from people he comes in contact with.

The Ajiichimonme drama special is set to air next spring.