My Dear Readers, 

It’s been a big week for the newest STARTO idols, Ae! group. Not only did they announce their new Netflix docuseries BORDERLESS was going global, but it’s been revealed that their single《A》BEGINNING was the best-selling debut in recent memory. For context: The Limited Edition bundle (featuring all three versions of the physical CD) was sold out on CD Japan within the first 24 hours.

The group’s musical prowess and steamy good looks were the catalyst to me re-starting these #ManCrushMonday posts. However, deciding which order to put them in has been an absolute chore!  After the most intense game of Eeny, Meeny, Miny, and Moe I have EVER played, I’ve decided that this week’s Man Crush will be none other than….

Masaya Sano (佐野晶哉)

Born 13 March, the innocently handsome Sano started his career on stage, well before he joined  STARTO ENTERTAINMENT at the age of 14. One of his earliest roles was as the young Simba in the Japan production of Disney’s The Lion King. He playfully recreated the role during the “We are called Ae! group” (JP: Bokura Ae! group tte iimasunen) livestream fan event back in February. 

From We are called Ae! group – which I reviewed here

Affectionately called Sano-chan by the group, he’s also referred to as 魔王 (The Devil) And 暴走少年 (Uncontrollable Boy) by fans due to his unhinged and competitive nature. 

The fans are a big part of why a non-Japanese speaker – like myself – can enjoy videos like this. If you want to subtitle videos you can learn how to submit here.

A drummer, he effortlessly mixes his sexy rockstar persona with naturally spot-on comedic timing that make him one of the most adorable idols at the company. 

Dreamy Steamy Beautiful… Cover Boy!

It is my personal opinion that Sano is the perfect blend of angelic good looks and a sexy bad-boy attitude that promises to get you into the BEST kind of trouble.

Recently he also starred in the film Tomorrow in the Finder (released 7 June) and has received rave reviews from fans. 

He and his Ae! group brethren are also ambassadors for FILA!

Green is good. Green means go. Green is the color of growth, harmony, and freshness. It also happens to be the color that represents Sano within the group. No wonder he’s my bias of the group.

So… Stay Thirsty and Stay Tuned! 

Xoxo