Exciting GTO reunion after 28 years: Meru Nukumi and Takashi Sorimachi relive behind the scenes
Actress and model Meru Nukumi, widely recognized as “Meruru”, will make her debut on the famous talk show “Sanma no Manma Midsummer Chat Festival”. The program, which will be broadcast on July 17 at 9pm on Kansai TV and Fuji TV, will feature Nukumi alongside renowned actor Takashi Sorimachi, star of the series “GTO”, who returns to the screen after 28 years. Both promise to reveal exclusive behind-the-scenes details of filming.
During the recording of the new season, Meru Nukumi, who plays a teacher for the first time at the age of 24, stars opposite Sorimachi, aged 52. Despite the considerable age difference, the actor expressed admiration for Meru’s professionalism. “She is very focused and masterfully executes even the most challenging sequences,” commented Sorimachi.
The young actress confessed her surprise with the “GTO” production team, as she realized that many members had worked together for 28 years. The unusual revelation caused laughter between presenter Sanma and Sorimachi. In addition, Nukumi promised to share several other behind-the-scenes facts, covering everything from the team’s eating habits to some of Sorimachi’s peculiar attitudes that left her intrigued.
After the program’s recording ended, Meru Nukumi expressed his satisfaction. “I have always followed this talk show on television and, despite the initial nervousness due to the lack of a script, the experience was quite pleasurable,” said the actress. She highlighted the spontaneity of the conversation, comparing it to her own way of interacting in front of the cameras.
Nukumi also mentioned reuniting with Sanma. “I haven’t seen Sanma-san in a while, and he was in a great mood today,” she said, laughing. The artist described the experience as something new and fun, similar to a visit to a friend’s home. She concluded by emphasizing the uniqueness of Sanma and Sorimachi’s partnership on the show, a rare opportunity to see the actor in a variety format, interacting in such a relaxed manner.
In addition to highlights with the cast of “GTO”, the special will feature other notable guests. Among them will be former Olympic speed skating medalists Nana and Miho Takagi, acclaimed authors Ryo Asai and Kanako Nishi, both Naoki Prize laureates, actress Riisa Naka, the comedy duo “Mitorizu”, and comedian Raipachi Imai.
