Shinohara Ryoko will headline the upcoming drama Punch Drunk Woman – Datsugoku made ato ×× Nichi –, set to premiere in January 2026, airing every Sunday at 22:30. Set in a detention center, the series explores the lives of suspects and defendants awaiting trial, focusing on the complex dynamics between those confined and the staff who supervise them, while weaving in themes of justice, secrecy, and human morality.
Shinohara plays Fuyuki Kozue, a veteran detention officer known for her discipline, calm demeanor, and unwavering sense of responsibility. Trusted by both her superiors and colleagues, Kozue’s orderly world is disrupted when she meets Kusaka Reiji, a prisoner accused of murder and awaiting trial. Their encounter sets off an unexpected chain of events, leading to a tense and ultimately inescapable “prison break” scenario.
The case is investigated by Saeki Yusuke of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department’s First Investigation Unit, who is aware not only of Reiji’s situation but also of Kozue’s past. As the story unfolds, the secrets connecting Reiji and Kozue are gradually revealed, with the interplay between law, morality, and personal history heightening the suspense.
For viewers, Punch Drunk Woman offers more than a standard crime or suspense narrative. By situating the story within the confined environment of a detention center, it explores the delicate balance between justice, duty, and personal choice. Shinohara Ryoko’s poised and resolute presence lends authority to her character, while the nuanced dynamic with Reiji adds emotional depth to the high-stakes drama. With its premiere approaching, this series is poised to be one of the most anticipated dramas of the early 2026 season.
