Mao Takano This Weeks Cover Girl Launches Long Awaited Solo Cover
Next month marks the first anniversary of her debut! From the secret story behind the photo shoot, to how she made her debut in the entertainment industry, to her recent appearances in TV dramas...we look back on a year that changed her life!
A different atmosphere from the past
——This was your third cover shoot, and your first solo shoot. How was it?
“Most of the time, I shoot while having fun with seniors from my agency, so being able to go at my own pace was refreshing. I didn’t particularly feel pressured, but I felt I had to be a bit more ‘on my game’ than usual.”
——You also paid attention to body preparation, right?
“I made sure to eat protein-rich foods so my stomach wouldn’t protrude, and I exercised. But just before the shoot, I caught a cold and couldn’t work out… As a result, I ended up shooting in the most ‘plump’ state I’ve ever been. But I think that helped me show a different vibe from before. I hope people can see my change in body shape as a new, positive side of me.”
——What are the highlights of the shoot?
“There are so many wonderful photos, but my favorite is the one in the red swimsuit. The swimsuit design is super cute, and the whole photo has a bright atmosphere. Until now, I often had childish expressions and outfits, but this time I also wore black and beige swimsuits that feel more mature, so I hope people pay attention to that. And of course, I hope they notice my charm point, my dimples (laughs).”
——The shoot was on Christmas Eve last year. Did you feel lonely?
“Not at all, because the shoot was so much fun. In fact, I was happy to be working on Christmas Eve. At the set, they had prepared my favorite strawberries, and I remember eating them heartily—it really stuck with me.”
——Recently, you’ve been taking on new challenges besides gravure work.
“In January this year, I appeared in the vertically formatted short drama ‘The Price of Lies.’ I played the best friend of the main character, who claims to be a victim of harassment. I’ve always been interested in acting, so the shoot was really fun. The appeal of acting is that you can live a life different from your own through your character.”
——What was the reaction like?
“It was more than I expected. I was especially happy to see comments saying, ‘This woman is terrible!’ (laughs). That means I was able to properly play a ‘hateful character,’ which really encouraged me.”
——While it’s fun, is it also challenging to play someone different from yourself?
“I only started acting seriously last summer, so I’m still learning. But on one set, a slightly strict director told me, ‘You pick things up quickly,’ and that made me really happy. It motivated me to approach acting more positively. So far, I’ve often played strong-willed or mean characters, but I’d like to try playing a straightforward and cheerful woman too.”
Both gravure and acting
——What first inspired you to pursue work in the entertainment industry?
“I don’t have a single clear trigger, but I’ve loved television since I was little. I remember peeking behind the TV as a child and thinking, ‘How can I get inside that screen?’ Also, my father did a bit of work related to the entertainment industry, so naturally I began to take an interest in it.”
——Are there any actors you particularly admire?
“Satomi Ishihara (39). I loved the drama ‘Takane no Hana’ (2018, Nippon TV) where she played the daughter of a prestigious family. I admire both her appearance and her acting skills. I hope to co-star with her someday.”
——You’ve been busy, but how do you spend your private time?
“Recently, I went to an izakaya by myself. That day, I had an esthetic appointment but realized I had the date wrong when I got there. And then, on the train home, I went the wrong way (laughs). To relieve stress, I went out to drink afterward.
On my days off, I go to the gym. I like listening to hip-hop while exercising. I prefer calmer tracks in hip-hop, and I often listen to songs by ‘3House’ and ‘Daichi Yamamoto.’”
——I hear you also enjoy knitting.
“It’s a great hobby because it lets me step away from my phone and pass the time. Recently, I even did it with someone I worked with, and we talked about holding a ‘knitting gathering’ once we improve. Once you get the hang of it, it’s really easy.”
——March marks the first anniversary of your debut. Looking back, what are your reflections, and what are your goals for year two?
“It’s been a year that felt both long and short, and I’ve experienced so many things. In year two, I want to give my all to both gravure and acting! During my first year, I had few opportunities to meet fans directly, so I want to create more chances to see them face-to-face and talk with them.”
Takano Mao, 22
Born in 2003 in Tochigi Prefecture, she is 153 cm tall. Since her debut last March, she has appeared on the covers of numerous magazines as a rising star. In January this year, she played Omi Aoi in the vertical short drama “Uso no Daishō.”
My recent favorite “Buy”:
Bath ball
Lately, I’ve been really into bath balls. I especially like the ones that are a bit more kid-friendly (laughs). When you put them in the bath, they fizz and a little figure comes out. Recently, I’ve been taking 20-minute baths every day as part of my diet, and thanks to the bath balls, my bath time has become even more fun! It feels like the stress washes away along with the sweat—two birds with one stone.
From the March 6, 2026 issue of “FRIDAY”
Interview and text by： Hirotsuru Fujiyama PHOTO： Takeo Dec.