Fuka Koshiba journey from Four Seasons of Drama to Agency Independence by Year’s End
Oscar's ace, starring in more than 10 commercials, starring in 4 consecutive dramas and a heroine, and set to star in a summer drama as well. Was she working too hard after all?
From the radio personality in Listen to the Waves (TV Asahi) who became famous for her rapid-fire talk, to the job change agent in Job Change Demon King (Fuji TV), the chef in Fermat’s Cooking (TBS), and the main consort of the shogun in Ooku (Fuji TV).
For four consecutive seasons, she has been the lead actress and female protagonist in dramas, and if you look at commercials, you’ll see her in over 10 companies including SMBC Mobit and Lunch Pack (Yamazaki Baking). Fuka Koshiba (27) is truly someone you can’t miss on TV.
At the time when it was announced that she will appear in next year’s Taiga drama Berabou: The Dream Story of Tatsuei Giga, and as the lead in the summer drama GO HOME: Missing Persons Consultation Office (NTV), shocking information about her was reported in FRIDAY magazine.
“Although she’s confirmed to appear in next year’s Taiga drama, Koshiba will leave her talent agency, Oscar Promotion, by the end of this year to become independent.”
The informant, who is close to Koshiba, is a close associate, stating, “Her independence is a top secret known only to a few within the agency, and we’ve generally reached an agreement,” the source continued.
The key network producer is amazed.
“During the transition from 2019 to 2020, Fuka Koshiba (27) saved the agency from a crisis as leading talents like Ryoko Yonekura (48), Ayame Goriki (31), and Shiori Kutsuna (31) left one after another. Now, she’s a top earner alongside Aya Ueto (38) and Nicole Fujita (26). However, Ueto’s focus is on parenting, so she primarily appears in commercials.
Nicole is mainly involved in modeling, product development, and talent work. Koshiba stands out as Oscar’s leading actress and ace, appearing in dramas, movies, and numerous commercials. If she were to leave, it would be a significant loss for the agency.”
FRIDAY’s investigation found no evidence of conflict between them. Therefore, it’s possible that the issue lies in the effects of overworking.
“In interviews, she has mentioned about feeling mentally overwhelmed at times, but she has also openly stated that she’s happy to push herself beyond limits to meet expectations. Koshiba took time to break into the industry after her debut in 2012. Having earned her roles through auditions, she deeply appreciates the opportunities that come her way. Despite a busy schedule, I’ve never seen her complain.” (Broadcasting executive),
The spokesperson from Oscar Promotion’s publicity department replied:
“As of now, we haven’t heard any discussions about her becoming independent. She is set to star in a drama for the July season and will appear in an NHK Taiga drama starting next year.”
Will Koshiba make a significant decision before her debut in the Taiga drama?
From the June 7-14, 2024 issue of “FRIDAY
PHOTO： Yusuke Kondo Shu Nishihara
