Nene Shida: I Focused on Staying Healthy Not Too Skinny

“I made sure to maintain just the right amount of meat (laughs).”

— Nenemaru (Shida Nene), 26, visited Taiwan for the photoshoot of her photobook, which will be released on February 14. How was the atmosphere there?

“This was actually my first time visiting Taiwan! My favorite outfit was the cheongsam. I don’t usually get the chance to wear something like that, so I was excited during the fitting, and when I actually wore it, I had even more fun. Wearing a local outfit made me feel like I was directly experiencing the culture of the place, and it felt special. It matched the atmosphere of Taiwan, and I think that joy really comes across in the photos.”

— What did you focus on during the shoot?

“For the January broadcast of Charider ★ Kaisen! Cycle Clinic (NHK), I did road bike training, which helped tighten my body, so this time, I was focused on not losing too much weight. I tend to naturally get a sharp look, but I thought it was important to keep a soft, feminine shape for the photobook, so I made sure to keep just the right amount of meat (laughs). I always paid attention to my body condition and made sure to be careful with my posing and movements during the shoot.”

— It sounds like the content will be full of your charm!

“It really captures the lively energy of Taiwan and its beautiful scenery. I hope the readers will feel like they’re traveling to Taiwan with me!”

— Recently, you’ve been actively taking on work outside of gravure. How has that been?

“Kamen Rider Geats (2022) on TV Asahi was a big turning point for me! It was my first acting role, and it was in a special effects production, so everything was new and exciting. There was wire action, green screen filming especially the scene where I fell into a hole, which was scary (laughs). In reality, I was just being suspended, so it felt more like an amusement ride.”

— Your lead role in the stage play Kageki Shoujo!! Chapter 2 in December was also well-received. How do you feel about the differences between drama and stage work?

“In dramas, I perform in real-life settings, so I can draw out more realistic emotions, which I find appealing. Every time the camera starts rolling, I feel the joy of becoming someone else. On the other hand, stage plays involve performing live in front of an audience, so it’s fun to act while seeing their immediate reactions. There’s a rush from being fully immersed in the same world, and sometimes I can’t help but add in some ad-libs (laughs). The sense of unity with the audience is something that’s unique to stage performances!”

— What do you focus on when preparing for a role?

“I try to actively watch films and shows. Additionally, I observe people with personalities similar to my character or talk to them directly to absorb their values and ways of thinking. Doing that broadens my perspective, and I always make interesting discoveries. I’m always thinking about how to blend my own personality with the character I’m playing.”