Kikuchi Fuma from the trio group timelesz is set to star in TV Asahi’s upcoming Saturday drama, “The Reason We Fall in Love (私たちが恋する理由 – Watashi-tachi ga Koi suru Riyuu),” starting October 12 at 11:00 PM. This will be the first live-action adaptation of a popular comic series, with Kumada Rinka cast as the heroine. To match her character from the manga, Kumada will cut her long hair by 25 centimeters (approximately 10 inches).

The show is based on a manga by ma2, which has garnered over 30 million views on e-book platforms. It explores the complicated, often hesitant love lives of adults who, despite their fears and uncertainties, find themselves deeply involved in romance. Set in an office environment, the series follows Kikuchi, Kumada, and four other characters in a sweet yet frustratingly complex story of “adult pure love.”

Kikuchi will play Kurosawa Tomonari, a 33-year-old section chief in the sales department. Kurosawa is known for being reserved, rarely showing his emotions, and speaking directly, which can make him seem cold and intimidating. His usual avoidance of romantic entanglements will be challenged by his interactions with his subordinate, Morita Aoi, played by Kumada.

This will be Kikuchi’s third appearance in this time slot and his first lead role in a TV Asahi drama. He will step into the shoes of a stoic, serious boss, marking a significant departure from his usual charming smile and spontaneous humor, both of which are off-limits for this role.

Kumada’s character, Morita Aoi, is a 25-year-old who has been with the company for three years. Morita is responsible and hardworking but struggles with self-confidence and is anxious about relationships due to her tall stature. She finds herself drawn to Kurosawa after a particular event in the series.

During a recent photo shoot, Kikuchi and Kumada shared intimate moments like back hugs and close face-to-face poses, creating a sweet atmosphere on set. At one point, Kikuchi couldn’t stop laughing due to shyness, adding to the friendly and relaxed vibe of the shoot.

(Source: Oricon)