Matsuda Genta Stars in Bold Premiere of Hadakanbou-tachi Drama
Travis Japan member Genta Matsuda stars as a charming, boundary-pushing protagonist in the television drama Hadakanboutachi, which premiered on October 3 across TV Asahi’s network. Adapted from Kaori Ekuni’s novel of the same name, the story explores a dangerous love triangle centered around a shoemaker named Ryo Sabasaki who approaches attached women without hesitation.
Matsuda Portrays a Seductive Shoemaker in TV Asahi Premiere
News. Sabasaki works as a shoe artisan and sales representative at a custom shoe manufacturer, where observing the footwear of passersby serves as his daily habit. Later, he discovers that Momo resides in the same sharehouse as her sister, freelance writer Yo Tsutsui, played by Ayumi Ito.
Momo, portrayed by Rosa Kato, is engaged to be married. He invites her to a lounge, fits the repaired pumps back onto her feet, and initiates a series of intimate kisses that push her toward a complex entanglement.
Cast Members Discuss On-Set Dynamics at Production Press Conference
Matsuda described the filming environment as relaxed and harmonious. Akane Osawa, who plays mother-of-three Kyoko Hotta in the series, noted at the event that she consciously held her breath during close scenes to avoid breathing near Matsuda.
Co-star Yuya Takagi expressed surprise at Matsuda’s quiet demeanor on set, describing him as disciplined and athletic in his greetings. Rosa Kato added that Matsuda shifts into character instantly once cameras roll.
Crossover Appearance Links Two Ekuni Adaptations on Television
The first episode featured an unexpected crossover event when actress Yuka Itaya appeared as Shishi Asano, a character from the 2024 TV Asahi drama Tokyo Tower, which was also adapted from an Ekuni novel. In Hadakanboutachi, Shishi visits Sabasaki’s shoe workshop as a customer, establishing a continuity between the two literary adaptations.
Reflecting on the guest spot, Itaya stated that returning to play Shishi brought back fond memories of reuniting with the Tokyo Tower production team. She noted that working briefly with Matsuda again highlighted his dedication to his craft.
Streaming Options and Upcoming Schedule for Viewers
Viewers can stream the first episode of Hadakanboutachi for free on TVer for a limited time, or watch it via the video platform TELASA. The series broadcasts new episodes every Saturday at 11:00 PM on TV Asahi’s 24-station network. Following the events of the premiere, the narrative accelerates into its second episode, scheduled for broadcast on October 10.