VIVANT episode 12 draws 16.4% viewership despite criticism over dialogue

The second‑season episode 12 of the Japanese TBS drama VIVANT recorded a 16.4% household rating in the Kanto region, according to Video Research. While the figure fell short of the 18.8% achieved by the previous episode, it continues the series' run of double‑digit ratings since the season’s launch on July 26.

The episode follows protagonist Nogi (played by Sakai Masato) as he pursues a former security officer in Cyprus and then moves through Cambodia into Thailand, confronting former terrorist leader Ali and other characters. Viewers on X complained that the script contains excessive explanatory dialogue, echoing similar criticism of the “F” personality in episode 11. Despite the feedback, the show maintains strong audience numbers and online discussion.