Cycomi’s “Kanade no Lala” to Become a TikTok Short-Form Drama Starring Aya Ogawa of Nogizaka46! Streaming Begins Late August with Cast Comments Included

■Cast & Comments

Aya Ogawa (Nogizaka46) / as Lala Tanaka
Lala Tanaka: The protagonist of the story. For her, youth means putting on makeup, falling in love, and having fun. Although she lives energetically and positively, she struggles with the fact that, compared to her peers, she has never felt truly passionate about something. One day, she stumbles upon Kanade’s painting, is drawn in by its power, and finds herself captivated.
Profile of Aya Ogawa:
Joined the fifth generation of Nogizaka46 in 2022. Known for her clear presence both inside and outside the group due to her transparency and expressive skills. In April 2025, she made her terrestrial TV drama debut as the little sister of the protagonist in “Nami Uraraka ni, Meoto Biyori,” which gained much attention.

Comment from Aya Ogawa
Q. About Playing the Role of Lala
The character Lala that I play is a super outgoing gal, but she’s also a high school girl who feels like something is missing. I believe there are many people who’ve felt similar to Lala at some point in their lives. That side of her made me feel a sense of closeness as well.
After encountering Kanade’s painting, Lala found something she could be passionate about. Just like I fell in love with Nogizaka46 after discovering the song “Sing Out!,” recalling those memories helped me empathize with Lala’s feelings.
Lala’s brightness, kindness, and her straightforwardness in following her heart move the hearts of many people around her. I also feel like I received courage from Lala and was able to grow a little.
I realized through this work that it’s very important, though quite difficult, to stay honest and true to your feelings, and that having something you can be passionate about is a great happiness.

Q. About Appearing in This Drama
I often find myself watching vertical-format dramas because they are so easy to watch in short bursts. When I was chosen to appear in one myself, I couldn’t believe it, but I was incredibly happy. I would be delighted if this drama inspires viewers to take on new challenges or helps them discover what they want to do.
Every day of filming was a challenge for me, and I kept thinking about many things while struggling through it. Thanks to the support of the cast and staff, I learned a lot—the days I spent as Lala were truly fun and made me happy.
I think this is a work where you can really feel youth, so I hope the charm of “Kanade no Lala” reaches as many people as possible.

Yoshiki Kanemaru / as Kanade Kuga
Kanade Kuga: Considered a genius in oil painting by those around him, he is extremely shy and struggles with communication, often withdrawing into his shell. He is bewildered by Lala, who suddenly forces her way into his world. Even his parents see him as a strange child and their relationship is not close.
Profile of Yoshiki Kanemaru:
Entered the entertainment industry as a semi-finalist in Men’s Non-no in 2021. Gained attention for commercials and magazine covers, and appeared in ABEMA’s original drama “Transparent Us” (2024), as well as TV Tokyo’s “Bansan Blues” (2025). Selected for the role of Kanade after a competitive audition with over 100 applicants.

Shunya Shiraishi / as Shingo Sasaki
Shingo Sasaki: Lala’s homeroom teacher and advisor to the art club. He quietly supports Kanade, recognizing his talent and hoping for his success as an artist. While initially exasperated by Lala’s sudden interest in oil painting, he grows to acknowledge her enthusiasm and begins to cheer her on.
Profile of Shunya Shiraishi:
Debuted in the entertainment industry in 2007; starred in “Kamen Rider Wizard” in 2012. Has appeared in many popular productions such as “Good Morning Call” and “Sanadamaru.” A versatile actor who also tries his hand at directing and screenwriting.

Yuuna Yamaki / as Yuriko Shinohara
Yuriko Shinohara: The first-year art club chairperson. Though the same age as Kanade and Lala, she is exceptionally reliable and leads the club. She admires Kanade's talent, but initially feels strong dislike toward Lala, the gal who tries to join the art club on a whim—
Profile of Yuuna Yamaki:
Grand Prix winner at the Stardust Promotion audition. Played the heroine in her first movie “Osyaberi na Syashinkan,” and appeared as a younger version of Yuki Sakurai in the drama “Host Souzoku Shichaimashita.” Broadly active and expanding her horizons.