What About Ryoko Hirosue’s Role? New The Confidence Man JP Film Set for Production Next Year

Shouting “Hirosue~!” at the service area

On April 8, actress Ryoko Hirosue (44) was arrested by Shizuoka Prefectural Police on suspicion of injury after causing a tunnel wall collision accident on the Tomei Expressway and injuring a nurse by kicking her at the hospital where she was taken. She was released on April 16 and immediately admitted to a hospital.

A national newspaper reporter who covered the scene said:

“Before the accident, at a service area, she was shouting ‘I’m Hirosue~!’ while touching strangers and wandering unsteadily inside the tunnel right after the accident. The authorities suspected drug influence, both legal and illegal, but test results came back negative.”

Though some reports described her behavior as bizarre,  Hirosue updated her official website on May 2.

She wrote,

“I sincerely apologize once again to everyone involved and to my fans for causing great worry and inconvenience.”

She then revealed her medical diagnosis:

“After being released from detention on April 16, Hirosue was hospitalized at a medical institution in Tokyo and diagnosed with bipolar disorder and hyperthyroidism.”

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by alternating periods of elevated mood (“mania”) and depression, with depressive phases often lasting longer and leading to frequent misdiagnosed as depression. Treatment mainly involves mood-stabilizing medication.

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, causing symptoms such as increased heart rate, high blood pressure, weight loss, and excessive sweating. The most common form is Graves’ disease, which typically affects more women than men, and is generally treated with medication.

In light of this, her official site stated:

“For the time being, Hirosue will suspend all entertainment activities to focus on her physical and mental recovery.”

 

In the past, Masahiro Higashide was also involved in a scandal

For a while, it’s hoped that she will focus on physical and mental recovery. However, according to someone in the entertainment industry:

“Although she agreed to take a break at the encouragement of those around her, her desire to continue her entertainment activities remains strong. It may not be the same as before, but I believe she will definitely come back.”

Meanwhile, the popular Confidence Man JP film sequel is already drawing attention as a potential comeback project for Hirosue.

The series began in April 2018 as Fuji TV’s Monday 9 PM drama. It comically follows a group of con artists, led by Masami Nagasawa (37), who swindle large sums of money from unscrupulous individuals.

To date, three films have been released: Confidence Man JP: Romance (2019), Princess (2020), and Hero (2022). A film industry insider says:

“This is a popular series with strong box office results. Actually, talks are underway to begin filming the latest installment as early as 2026, aiming for a 2027 release. The main cast, including Masami Nagasawa, has already been asked to adjust their schedules.”

Hirosue appeared as Namiko in the 2022 Hero film. Although not a key character in the story, her presence on screen was notably strong.

“Her casting for the new film is being considered internally. Despite everything that’s happened, the production team still holds her in high regard. In fact, Confidence Man should probably reach out to her. Even Masahiro Higashide, who had a past scandal, continues to be cast. It might be difficult for television dramas aired on public broadcast, but movies are different—audiences pay to watch them, so the barriers are much lower,” said the same film industry source.

When Fuji TV was asked about the Confidence Man JP film planned for 2027 and other details, they responded:

“We do not disclose details about production.”

“Ryoko Hirosue” is a brand unto herself. We hope she takes this time to rest and believe that offers will come when she’s ready.