Two Hurdles Blocking the Sequel to Jun Matsumoto’s Popular Drama 99.9

“Another major hurdle lies in whether actor Teruyuki Kagawa, who played Atsuhiro Sada, the director of the protagonist’s law firm in the theatrical version, can participate. There’s still uncertainty. Some media outlets reported that an offer was extended to Kagawa for both the sequel of our Takuya Kimura (51)-starring drama ‘Grand Maison Tokyo’ and the theatrical version, but it’s not easy to dispel the image of the sexual harassment allegations. However, it’s unlikely that fans of the series would be satisfied with a replacement,” the same source continued.

Matsumoto also revealed at a screening event for “SEASON II” held in Tokyo in January 2018, before the broadcast, “We had a day of filming yesterday, but because there was a gap, I suggested, ‘Why don’t we do a script reading during New Year’s?’ and the cast agreed to gather for an unusual ‘self-practice’ session.” Kato, who participated, smiled bitterly, saying, “I’ve been an actor for 30 years, but this is the first time.”

“While superficially, it’s a good episode that reveals the strong bond on set, in reality, such things are not common. Last year’s Taiga drama reported on Matsumoto’s self-centered behavior backstage and his affection for his co-star Kasumi Arimura (31). Looking back, the ‘self-practice’ Matsumoto called for now seems to have a connection with the reports from the Taiga drama era.

In ‘99.9,’ the heroine changed from Nana Eikura (36) in ‘SEASON I,’ to Fumino Kimura (36) in ‘SEASON II,’ and to Hana Sugisaki (26) in the theatrical version. It’s uncertain whether someone from the past will be offered the role or if a new actress will be sought after. It’s said that casting the heroine will be the most challenging aspect of the sequel,” the source concluded.

 

After fulfilling his long-desired wish of starring in Hideki Noda’s stage production, it’s hoped that the sequel to “99.9” will come to fruition.

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