Tokyo Tower was one of the year’s steamiest J-Dramas, captivating audiences with its 9-episode run on TV Asahi in Japan. The series, which originally started airing on 20 April, 2024, is currently available for international streaming on Rakuten Viki.

The show boasts a talented cast, including not one but TWO idols signed to STARTO ENTERTAINMENT: The sensitive and sweet Ren Nagase of King & Prince and dangerously delectable Genta Matsuda from Travis Japan. I had the opportunity to catch up with Genta, who shared his aspirations for future roles.

“I would like to play a mysterious or villainous character like the Joker or a similar kind of psychopath,” he says with a childish grin. “I see a lot of roles like that in foreign movies and TV shows, and they always pack a really strong punch. On the other hand, I am always proud to see works based on Japanese culture get recognized, such as Netflix’ ‘SHOGUN’ and its historic Emmy wins, so the chance to play a warlord or something similarly and so quintessentially Japanese would be a lot of fun. More than anything, I want to be an actor who can share what is great about Japanese entertainment to the world.”

It seems Genta will have the chance to tap into his darker side soon, as he’s set to voice the younger version of Disney’s iconic villain Scar (known as Taka) in the Japanese dub of Mufasa: The Lion King, hitting theaters globally on 20 December 2024.

“This time, I have been given the opportunity to voice Taka, who becomes Scar, the “villain” who takes Mufasa’s life in The Lion King. Since this is my first voice acting job, I will approach it with a sincere attitude and, above all, enjoy it as much as possible, doing my utmost to bring the beginning story of The Lion King to many people,” Matsuda says. “I would be very happy if you could warmly watch over me. Also, I will be working with Ukon Onoue, who plays Mufasa, for the first time, and since we play brothers, I believe there will be many conversations between us in the film, so I’m really looking forward to it.” He continues. “Though I may be inexperienced, I will give it my all, fully enjoy acting, and hope to learn a lot from the experience. I will do my best! Thank you very much for your support!”

Genta in the Studio!

More Genta. More TJ. More magic soon so… 

Stay Tuned!