Toyotomi Brothers! drama highlights Tokugawa Ieyasu’s past

The NHK Taiga drama ‘Toyotomi Brothers!’ (Toyotomi Kyodai!) saw significant viewer engagement during its 34th episode, titled ‘The Strongest Rival’. The episode focused on the character arc of Tokugawa Ieyasu, portrayed by Matsushita Kohei, depicting his transition from a patient observer to a direct adversary of the Toyotomi clan.

The narrative explored Ieyasu’s traumatic past during his time as a hostage with the Imagawa clan, including a pivotal moment involving a bird gifted by Imagawa Yoshimoto. The episode also featured the introduction of the ‘Tokugawa Four Heavenly Kings’, including Sakakibara Yasumasa, played by Kurihara Rui. Kurihara’s portrayal received widespread praise on social media for his intense presence and authentic warrior appearance.

The story is building toward the depiction of the Battle of Komaki and Nagakute in the upcoming episode.