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Jan 16, 2026 | 9:13 am
#Interview – Ninomiya in Netsuretsu Teki Chuuka Hanten
2003Ninomiya KazunariTranslation

I found this on the archived Fuji TV website.

Our interview today is with Ninomiya Kazunari, who plays Nanami Kenta. Among a cast full of unique characters, how will Ninomiya approach the role of Nanami, the lone character who stands in the kitchen with a pure dream of becoming a chef? Ninomiya, who says, “I love cooking, so being on set felt like a fun home economics class,” spoke to us about his role and his memories of filming in Hong Kong.

…How was it playing the role of Nanami?

He’s the most normal of the team and feels closest to the viewers, so it was rather easy.

…So the characters have to form a team and continue to cook with no way out, right?

This is a story that takes place on a boat for a short period of time, so they have to cook even if it’s difficult. But even though the cast is originally scattered, everyone is skilled enough, so I think there will be a lot to enjoy–like the forming of the team and the interesting exchanges of words.

…Most of the filming will be done in one location, right?

We built a boat set for the show, so I think it will create a unique atmosphere that is different from the everyday world.

…By the way, what are your memories of filming in Hong Kong?

We had a great view of the night scenery from our room, and we all went out to eat together. Everything was delicious~ When I tried to order room service, I wondered what to do when the menu was in Cantonese, but I think because we filmed in Hong Kong we were able to have the kind of teamwork do.

…It was your first time in Hong Kong, right?

Yes. I was surprised at how powerful the women were, and I was grateful for the warm welcome they gave me. But it felt like the cameras were just filming my eyes…I wonder if they were filming me? (laughs) It was really warm over there, though. I was sweating.

…How are your cooking skills?

When I was a Johnny’s Jr., I did a cooking show in Kansai, and both my parents are good cooks, so I think I’m in good blood. I guess I’m a godsend (laughs). I can pretty much make anything if you tell me to, and a different dish appears each time in the drama, so it’s really fascinating to see the process of how it’s made.

…What’s your specialty dish?

I’m also good at Chinese cooking, and I think I can make almost anything if you ask me to. The other day I made mapo eggplant. From scratch, that is!

…We’ll be paying close attention to your cooking skills in the main story! Now, a message for everyone…

Um, my character’s name this time is Kenta. It was the same two years ago in “Wipe Away Your Tears,” which was also in the Wednesday 9pm slot. And the script was written by the same Hayashi-san. On Fuji TV, it’s on Wednesday at 9pm, scripted by Hayashi-san, and I’m like, “Is Kenta the only character I get cast as?” (laughs). I’m a pretty limited actor (laughs), yoroshiku onegaishimasu!! I’ll be playing various Kenta roles on Fuji’s Wednesday 9pm slot. Back then I was a carpenter, but this time I’m a chef. I hope you’ll enjoy this “trade-oriented” role!

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