Kimura Takuya’s Role in ‘Believe’ Reflects Star Status Despite Typecasting Criticism

When a drama role is decided, there’s speculation about ratings even before it airs, along with various criticisms, some even without seeing the drama. After it airs, not only the content but also the lead actor’s performance gets scrutinized, and this seems to happen especially with certain individuals, doesn’t it?

Yes, we’re talking about Kimutaku, also known as Kimura Takuya. 

When it comes to Kimura Takuya, his lead roles in dramas used to consistently achieve high ratings, earning him the reputation of a superstar. However, recently, he hasn’t maintained the same level of momentum and often finds himself trailing behind other dramas.

Recently, his 26th consecutive lead role drama, “Believe – Kimi ni Kakeru Hashi,” aired its final episode.

Before the broadcast began, there were concerns online, including critiques about inaccuracies in the protagonist’s occupational setting. However, after the series ended, the ratings weren’t as bad as feared. Still, it didn’t top the ratings for dramas airing in the April season, settling for second place, which triggered the expected “Kimutaku scrutiny articles.”

 

In these post-drama reviews, a common critique is that no matter what role he plays, Kimura Takuya always seems to be perceived as “Kimura Takuya” rather than fully embodying his characters. This perception has led to his dramas being humorously referred to as “occupational cosplay dramas,” reflecting on his portrayal of various professions. 

On January 2, 2019, Kimura appeared on the TBS program “Monitoring,” where he was subjected to a hidden camera prank.

“Because everything I do gets criticized in various ways. Even I get criticized. No matter what I do, they say it’s just ‘Kimutaku’.”

He is revealing his own struggles.