[REVISION HISTORY]

VIVANT Season 2: Plot twists and diplomatic tensions

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2026-10-29 09:43 UTC → 2026-11-01 03:21 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The second season of TBS’s Sunday drama VIVANT remains a major hit, though it has entered a controversial phase. As the narrative focuses on a mission to rescue the ‘Beppan’ intelligence unit, the series has faced criticism for stylistic shifts, such as the use of red infrared laser beams in gunfights. The show has triggered diplomatic friction, with Chinese state media, specifically CCTV, accusing it of ‘cognitive poisoning’. Critics allege that depictions of torture—such as cutting fingers and stabbing the abdomen—resemble historical atrocities committed by the Imperial Japanese Army and accuse the drama of beautifying the actions of the Japan Self-Defense Forces. Chinese commentators further argue the series portrays Chinese intelligence organizations as ‘backward’ compared to Japanese services and distorts historical facts to incite hostility. ~~While some Japanese viewers have noted perceived double standards regarding historical dramas, others distinguish~~ This tension has led to commercial fallout. Sanrio, the company behind Hello Kitty, cancelled its collaboration with the series following criticism from ~~works based on documented historical events.~~ Chinese state media and social media users. The Global Times warned that Hello Kitty should not ‘dance with the Japanese right wing’. Sanrio stated the collaboration was inconsistent with its philosophy of ‘promoting harmony and connection among all people’. TBS President Masamine Ryuho defended the show, calling it a ‘completely fictional entertainment work’ with no intention of disparaging any nation. Despite the controversy, the series ~~has achieved high domestic success, with viewership ratings reaching approximately 18.8 percent in the Kanto region. The production team has maintained~~ maintains high ~~engagement through a strategic digital presence on platforms like X, TikTok, and YouTube.~~ engagement. Recent ~~episodes have intensified viewer engagement through major~~ plot ~~revelations. Episode 21 sparked discussion regarding character Hirose’s emotional outbursts, while actor Ryo Tamaki noted~~ developments include the ~~physical intensity of filming. Episode 22 revealed~~ revelation that Nogoon Beki ~~(Koji Yakusho)~~ is alive ~~and recovering~~ in Shimane ~~Prefecture. Additionally, supporting cast members such as Thai actor Ohm (Thanapak Jongjayer)~~ Prefecture, and ~~actress Shi Yuxuan have seen significant surges~~ intense narrative arcs involving characters Drum and Nozaki in ~~social media popularity.~~ the Republic of Gorbado. Production staff have noted the complexity of these long-term narrative threads.

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