“I’m Not There Yet”—Manaka Osaki on Her Journey in Tora ni Tsubasa

A major turning point in the 13th year of her career

“I Admired Aya Ueto (39), so I entered the ‘All-Japan National Beauty Contest’ and joined the same agency to pursue acting. I think many people finally started to recognize me through last year’s Tora ni Tsubasa (NHK), but the truth is—I’m already in my 13th year in the industry!”

Actress Manaka Osaki (24) began speaking with a playful smile.

Osaki entered the entertainment world at the age of 11 and moved from Kochi to Tokyo after graduating from junior high school. She gained popularity through the 2019 Super Sentai series Kishiryu Sentai Ryusoulger (TV Asahi), and finally broke through with her role in the NHK morning drama Tora ni Tsubasa. It’s often said that once you appear in an Asadora (morning drama), people start recognizing you on the street—but did she actually feel that impact? She smiled in response:

“I’ve never been approached by anyone in Tokyo. In fact, I was more often recognized by moms and kids back when I was on the Sentai show or visiting rural areas. I think Tokyo has a good kind of indifference—it’s easy to blend in there (laughs). I’m the type who prefers to keep a boundary between myself and others, so I actually feel comfortable in Tokyo’s detached atmosphere.”

It’s been nearly 10 years since she moved to Tokyo, and 13 years since she started acting. Looking back, she sees Tora ni Tsubasa as a major turning point in her career.

“Asadora is on a whole different level, and I definitely felt the pressure when I got the role. But I learned so much by watching the way lead actress Sairi Ito (31) carried herself on set. She would notice if someone was nervous and naturally reach out to them. Even when I was struggling with my role, Masaki Okada (35) and she both came over and asked, ‘What’s wrong?’ Despite being busy with so many lines and responsibilities, they were aware of everyone around them and acted accordingly. The atmosphere they created was truly something special.”

Osaki currently appears in the Getsuku (Monday 9 p.m.) drama Ashita wa Motto, Ii Hi ni Naru (Fuji TV), and also stars in the late-night drama Cinderella Closet (TBS) in a dual-lead role. This marks her fifth time as a lead, but even now she humbly reflects, saying she still lacks human strength, and shares her mindset:

“I try to be aware of my position on set to make things easier for the staff. I always remind myself: ‘If I stay positive, the whole atmosphere can be positive.’ The presence of the lead actor carries a lot of weight, but it’s also fun to see how I can shape that energy in my own way.”

As Manaka Osaki continues her rapid rise as a leading actress, what most people don’t see is the numerous setbacks she’s faced along the way.

In the July 17 issue of FRIDAY (August 1 edition) and the premium digital version FRIDAY GOLD, Osaki candidly shares details about near-retirement experiences and her current go-to methods for recharging.

For the full interview and exclusive photos, check here ↓

From the August 1, 2025 issue of “FRIDAY”