Handsome Actor Matsuzaka Tori’s Surprisingly High Geek Support Rate Among Otaku

Actor Tori Matsuzaka, who played the role of Shun Kurosu in the drama “VIVANT.” He showed wonderful acting in this work, which features renowned actors such as Masato Sakai and Hiroshi Abe. He has also starred in movies such as “The Journalist” and “Napping Princess,” showcasing his talent as one of Japan’s leading actors. Despite being a handsome actor, Matsuzaka surprisingly receives strong support from male fans, especially from those who are introverted.

One of the reasons for his popularity among introverted fans is his unexpected love for “Yu-Gi-Oh!” He seems to be particularly hooked on the smartphone game “Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links,” to the extent that he participates in meet-ups despite being an actor.

Entertainment writers state, “Many men feel a sense of camaraderie upon learning that a handsome actor, who is typically seen as distant, enjoys card games. Matsuzaka’s serious dedication to dueling has earned him the nickname ‘King,’ the highest rank in the game, among Yu-Gi-Oh! fans.”

Furthermore, Matsuzaka is also affectionately called “Tono” in addition to “King.” Matsuzaka appeared in the Super Sentai series “Samurai Sentai Shinkenger,” which aired from 2009, portraying Shinken Red, one of the five samurais. As he played the role of the 18th head of the clan, “Tono,” in the program, he is still fondly referred to as “Tono” by tokusatsu fans.

Indeed, online discussions include comments like “I still call Matsuzaka Tono,” and “The impression of a character from the past is hard to shake off.” Additionally, in 2014, he played the role of Kuroda Nagamasa in the NHK Taiga drama “Gunshi Kanbei,” solidifying his association with the “Tono” nickname.

Moreover, one reason for Matsuzaka’s popularity among introverted fans might be his perfectly uncool fashion sense. Despite his preference for comfortable and easy-to-wear clothes that are easy on the eyes, Matsuzaka’s attire is considered uncool by those around him.

“Although he defies the stereotype that handsome actors are naturally fashionable, he actually won the Best Dresser Award in 2015. At that time, he and his agency staff were reportedly more surprised by the award than anyone else.” (From the aforementioned entertainment writer)

Recently, Matsuzaka demonstrated his mastery of internet memes using the phrase “My name is Ashitaka!” from Studio Ghibli’s film “Princess Mononoke,” to celebrate the opening of actor Masaki Okada’s Instagram account. While gaining an unusual fan base for a male actor, Matsuzaka continues to be expected for further growth as one of Japan’s leading actors. As both a duelist and an actor, he is likely to continue delivering outstanding performances in the future.