VIVANT Young Nogu Actor Kaito Sakurai Draws Renewed Attention Ahead of Possible Return
Three years after a brief flashback appearance, Sakurai's elevated profile makes him a prime candidate for a VIVANT return, with fans speculating on expanded roles.
Reporting from 1 source: Magmix.
Kaito Sakurai, who played a young Yusuke Nogu in season one of the Sunday Theater drama VIVANT, is drawing renewed attention as calls grow for his return in the current second season. His profile has risen sharply since 2023 through lead roles including Aqua Hoshino in Oshi no Ko and Meguru Bachira in Blue Lock.
Kaito Sakurai appeared in only a brief scene in VIVANT season one, playing Yusuke Nogu as a teenager in episode 5 flashbacks and in scenes recounted by Mamoru Nozaki. Viewers noted his resemblance to Masato Sakai and his portrayal of a man with amnesia searching for his own past, which left a vivid impression despite the short screen time.
Sakurai, born in 2001, is the son of Mr.Children vocalist Kazutoshi Sakurai. He debuted in the 2020 morning drama Yell and has since built his profile through lead roles, including Aqua Hoshino in Oshi no Ko and Meguru Bachira in Blue Lock. Fans now speculate he could return as a hidden child of Nogon Beki or a younger brother of Nogu and Nokoru.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 1 cited source below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.