NHK morning drama Blossom premieres with strong viewership

Blossom NHK morning drama Asadora Ishibashi Shizuka Japanese television

The new NHK morning drama ‘Blossom’ has premiered, following the life of a woman named Tama, modeled after the writer Uno Chiyo. The series spans the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras, depicting Tama’s journey from her childhood in Yamaguchi Prefecture to her career as a novelist.

Lead actress Ishibashi Shizuka portrays the adult Tama, while Murakami Ran plays her younger self. Early episodes have garnered significant social media attention, particularly for Murakami’s performance and the complex portrayal of Tama’s father, Seiji, played by Watanabe Atsuro. The character of Seiji, described as a free-spirited and sometimes difficult man, has sparked discussions regarding his nuanced depiction.

The production has also faced minor viewer feedback regarding the legibility of the opening credits. Despite this, the series achieved a strong start with an initial viewership rating of 15.5% in the Kanto region. The drama features a soundtrack by YOASOBI and explores themes of resilience and finding happiness amidst historical upheaval.

Entities

Ishibashi Shizuka · Murakami Ran · NHK · Ran Murakami · Shizuka Ishibashi · Uno Chiyo · Unoh Chiyo · Watanabe Atsuro · Yamaguchi Prefecture

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 3 SOURCES] Ran Murakami portrays the protagonist during her childhood.
[● 4 SOURCES] The series 'Blossom' is modeled after the life of writer Unoh Chiyo. www.the-miyanichi.co.jp
[● 4 SOURCES] Shizuka Ishibashi plays the lead role of Tamu. www.the-miyanichi.co.jp
[○ 1 SOURCE] Viewers on social media have praised Ran Murakami's acting performance.
[● 2 SOURCES] Mariko Kaga portrays Tamu in her 80s.