This weekend, I stumbled upon an irresistible live-action adaptation of Oshi no Ko (推しの子, My Favorite Idol) on Amazon Prime. Based on the hit Japanese manga by Aka Akasaka and illustrated by Mengo Yokoyari, the series released six out of its eight episodes all at once. As a fan, I couldn’t stop watching.

I first discovered the series when I learned that Kento Nakajima, part of the special group GEMN with Tatsuya Kitani, performed the season two theme song, “FATAL.” As a long-time Nakajima fan, I binge-watched the first season in a single weekend to catch up before season two dropped. 

I’ve watched every episode of the anime, purchased every soundtrack, and can honestly say I’ve joined millions of fans who have become completely captivated by the series

Dr. Gorou Hoshino’s life is forever changed when his idol, Ai Hoshino of J-POP sensation B-Komachi, visits his office, revealing a secret pregnancy. Sworn to secrecy, Hoshino’s loyalty is tested when he’s brutally murdered by an obsessed fan on the night Ai gives birth.

In a shocking twist, Hoshino’s reincarnated as Ai’s son, Aqua, retaining memories of his past life. Unbeknownst to him, his twin sister Ruby is the reincarnation of Sarina Tendōji, another fan and former patient.

Four years later, the same fan strikes again, targeting Ai. Aqua pieces together the truth: his father’s involvement in the murder. Driven by vengeance, Aqua vows to infiltrate the entertainment industry, and seek justice not just for Ai, but himself as well.

While Nakajima is missed from the live-action soundtrack, the series is incredibly well done. 

Asuka Saito (My Home Hero) is wonderful as the tragically beautiful Ai while Kaito Sakurai (Ao Haru Ride) and Nagisa Saito (Saiko no Seito: Toaru Hi no Hokago) absolutely stuns as Aqua and Ruby.

While the storyline is rushed in the beginning (it basically swan dives into season 2 of the anime) it’s beautifully told. Ai’s death is particularly gut-wrenching, thanks to the incredible performance of Haru Iwakawa, who plays young Aqua. His portrayal is raw, believable, and emotionally charged— and despite his limited screen time is truly a standout in the series.

This series conluded with episodes 7 and 8 streaming yesterday, blind up to the theatrical release of Oshi no Ko -The Final Act- on 20 December 2024. 

Nakajima and Kitani appeared on the first take to sing FATAL – and they do an incredible job.

There will be more reviews soon so… 

Stay Tuned!