Kei Tanaka’s Dangerous Legend Revealed by Industry Insiders

The agency packed his schedule with work to prevent him from going out drinking!?

Finally this impression comes from Keii Tanaka (40), who was recently embroiled in an affair rumor with Mei Nagano (25). Following the news, Tanaka’s past mishaps involving alcohol have been resurfacing one after another. An employee from a TV station shared the following:

“Tanaka’s love for alcohol is well-known in the industry. Ever since his breakout role in ‘Ossans’ Love’ (2018, TV Asahi), it became common for him to appear in multiple dramas simultaneously, which was discussed as a sign of overwork. In fact, it was said that whenever Tanaka had free time, he would immediately go out drinking. I was convinced when I heard that his agency packed his schedule with work because they were concerned about him causing problems due to drinking.”

Despite his mischievous side, Tanaka is regarded as one of a kind in his work, for better or worse, according to industry insiders. A photographer shared this anecdote:

“Most talents are aware that being photographed is part of their job, so there are hardly any who fail at taking a good photo. During a shoot, we take many pictures, but usually, the first shot is perfect. The rest are just taken for safety.

However, Tanaka was different. Either he wasn’t making an effort to look good, or he was too relaxed, but most of the photos we took had him with half-open eyes or expressions that lacked intensity, making them unusable. I’ve never seen a talent like this, and it left a strong impression on me.”

A veteran interview writer who has worked with many talents also described Tanaka as a one-of-a-kind type.

Despite all that, the reason why Tanaka was still in high demand

“When he entered the interview room, there was absolutely no tension. Even when we started talking, he seemed completely disengaged. At first, I was asking about his role and work, but it was clear he was bored, answering with disinterest.

However, as soon as the conversation shifted to something he enjoyed, like talking about his hobbies, he became lively and started chatting away, saying things like, ‘The other day,’ and ‘You know, I’ It was like a conversation you’d have at a drinking party (laughs). I felt like he was taking work too lightly.

I thought he was bound to mess up eventually. However, unlike many actors who put up a facade, Tanaka’s demeanor felt genuine. Personally, I thought this was just part of his unique character.”

This isn’t exactly a compliment, but what’s interesting is that no one seemed to have a particularly bad impression of Tanaka. Perhaps that’s why, when this recent scandal broke, the backlash seemed stronger toward Nagano than toward Tanaka.

Tanaka has often been reported for his bad drinking habits and love of gambling, yet he continued to receive job offers. Why was that?

Takahiko Kageyama, a professor at Doshisha Women’s University and media critic, provides an analysis:

“Tanaka is married with children. In the film where he worked with Nagano Mei, the age difference between them was significant, as they played a step-parent and child, so he should have maintained a certain distance, considering his own position. He needs to reflect thoroughly.

However, when you see Tanaka in interviews or variety shows, you sometimes wonder if it’s really him? In the entertainment industry, showing your true self is sometimes welcomed, but it’s often a calculated realness. Many people who sell themselves as ‘natural’ aren’t actually natural.

But with Tanaka, he’s so genuine that you think, ‘He really doesn’t need to show that much.’ I think that’s why he’s not likely to be disliked by industry people. He’s a rare presence in the entertainment world, and it would be a shame if he lost his work because of this incident.”

Tanaka has managed to survive with his beloved image, but this time, it seems like his mistake is much more severe.

 

We are looking forward to receiving your information and tip-offs. Please send your information to the following information form or to the official X.

Information form: https://friday.kodansha.co.jp/tips
Official X: https://x.com/FRIDAY_twit