The Beginning of the Sea (also Known as 海のはじまり) is a Japanese television drama series set to premiere on Fuji TV in July 2024. The series, airing every Monday from 9:00 p.m. to 9:54 p.m., marks the return of actor Ren Meguro to Fuji TV dramas after a hiatus of approximately two years since his last appearance in "silent." Meguro stars in the lead role of Natsu Tsukioka, marking his debut in a Monday 9 p.m. drama.

Plot

The story revolves around Natsu Tsukioka, a 28-year-old man who discovers the existence of his daughter, Umi, after the death of his ex-girlfriend whom he parted ways with seven years ago. As Natsu grapples with the revelation, he embarks on a journey to become a father while reflecting on the years he was unaware of.

Main Characters

  • Kasumi Arimura as Yayoi Momose: Natsu's girlfriend, who must come to terms with the revelation of his past and his newfound daughter.
  • Ren Meguro as Natsu Tsukioka: A printing company employee who discovers he has a daughter from a previous relationship.
  • Rana Izutani as Umi Nagumo: Natsu's unexpected daughter.
  • Taisei Kido as Yamato Tsukioka
  • Kotone Furukawa as Mizuki Nagumo: Natsu’s ex-girlfriend and Umi’s mother.
  • Shinobu Otake as Akane Nagumo: Mizuki’s mother.
  • Sosuke Ikematsu as Haruaki Tsuno

Additional Cast Members

  • Yasufumi Hayashi as Kazuya Tsukioka
  • Naomi Nishida as Yukiko Tsukioka
  • Go Riju as Shohei Nagumo

Production

The script for The Beginning of the Sea is written by Ikuko Namikata, known for her work on "silent" and "The Most Beloved Flower." Ken Murase serves as the producer, with Masahiro Tokita handling the music composition. The directing team includes Taiki Kazama, Maai Takano, and Jon Undagi. The series is produced by Fuji TV's Drama and Film Production Department.

Production Details

  • Director: Hiroki Kazama, Mai Takano, John Eun-Hee
  • Writer: Miku Ubukata
  • Network: Fuji TV
  • Episodes: TBA
  • Release Date: July 1, 2024
  • Runtime: Mondays at 21:00
  • Language: Japanese
  • Country: Japan

Development and Casting

Ren Meguro expressed his excitement and gratitude for being offered the lead role in the series, highlighting his personal connection to the character and his aspirations. Rana Izutani, who portrays the role of Umi, expressed her joy and eagerness to portray the character she desired.

Release

The Beginning of the Sea is set to premiere on Fuji TV in July 2024, airing weekly on Mondays from 9:00 p.m. to 9:54 p.m.

Reception

The series has garnered attention for its promising cast and compelling storyline, with viewers eagerly anticipating its premiere.

Notes

  • "Umi no Hajimari" takes over Fuji TV's Monday 21:00 time slot previously occupied by "366 Days."
  • This drama marks Kasumi Arimura's return to Fuji TV’s 9 PM time slot since her 2016 series "Love That Makes You Cry."