NHK's 'Toyotomi Brothers' episode 26 draws viewer sympathy for Akechi Mitsuhide

NHK’s historical drama "Toyotomi Brothers" aired its 26th episode, focusing on the lead‑up to the Honnō‑ji Incident. The episode shows Oda Nobunaga's (played by Shun Oguri) sudden policy shift, a banquet at Nagahama Castle, and a drinking contest that results in the forgiveness of Oda Nobunaga’s nephew, Oda Nobuzumi. The narrative also reveals that Mitsuhide Akechi’s secret letter was actually written by Nobuzumi, heightening the tension.

Viewers responded strongly on social media, with many expressing sympathy for Mitsuhide Akechi. Comments included “明智光秀は大河史上最も可哀想な明智光秀かも” (“Mitsuhide may be the most pitiful character in a taiga drama”) and “光秀が気の毒すぎる”. The episode’s blend of humor, intrigue, and looming conflict has sparked lively discussion about the historical characters and the drama’s portrayal of the impending betrayal.