Singer actress, Imai Miki (47) is set to star in a drama series after roughly 11 years. It was announced on November 10th, that Imai Miki will star as the heroine alongside SMAP’s Kusanagi Tsuyoshi (36) in the TBS drama series, “Fuyu no Sakura” (Winter Cherry Blossoms) which will air next year during January, Sundays at 9PM. The story depicts a love between a man and woman who are short on time. They are aiming for a pure love story that exceeds Korea’s big hit drama, “Fuyu no Sonata” (Winter Sonata).

“Fuyu no Sakura” is an original work. The story centers around a glasswork assistant, Kusanagi who has never fallen in love and Monami who has lost her memory from an accident.

TBS producer, Ishimaru Akihiko, explains, “First, I want it to be seen as a love between Kusanagi and an older woman with an impairment. Since the white snow is a motif being used, while Rin is looking for this woman, Imai floats right in front of him like snow.”

Imai’s last drama series was in 2000 for Fuji TV’s “Brand.” She was also in a 2007 movie, “Zou no Senaka” (The Elephant’s Back). Imai has been in negotiations with producer Ishimaru for roughly half a year. At first, Imai was shocked with the offer and said, “I’m not an actress, I’m a singer.” But she finally gave consent after another discussion.

Imai had several offers to choose from, but she chose this drama after 11 years of not being in one. The staff was shocked and carefully built the role for her. The protagonist finds out she has a brain tumor and a limited amount of time left, so Imai visited a brain surgeon to study about the symptoms of the disease. A focused Imai stated, “I will do my best to meet everyone’s expectations.”

This is the first time that Kusanagi and Imai will co-star together. Producer Ishimaru raved about the Kusanagi and Imai pairing. Producer Takahashi enthusiastically said, “I want this love story to surpass ‘Fuyu no Sonata.'”

Kusanagi stated, “I will perform with all my might to make this the best love story this winter. I’m also looking forward to acting alongside Mrs. Imai.” Imai commented, “Since Kusanagi is such a talented actor, I want to be absorbed in his character.” Both are looking forward to shooting together.