Yo Oizumi has been confirmed as the lead actor in NTV’s upcoming television drama Oretachi no Hakone Ekiden. The series is based on the novel by Jun Ikeido, though its television adaptation shifts the narrative focus from the original story’s university track club to the broadcasting team responsible for covering the famous Hakone Ekiden relay race.
Set against one of Japan’s most celebrated sporting events, the drama explores the behind-the-scenes reality of live television coverage. Over the course of two days and more than 14 hours of continuous broadcasting, the production team faces a series of unexpected challenges, including technical issues and on-site disruptions. Despite these obstacles, they devote themselves fully to delivering accurate and compelling coverage to viewers nationwide.
At the same time, the series maintains a strong connection to the athletes on the course. Runners and coaches fighting from the bottom of the rankings struggle to adapt and overcome adversity, pouring their determination into the race that symbolizes tradition, pride, and endurance. Their efforts parallel those of the broadcast staff, creating a layered narrative that balances athletic ambition with professional responsibility.
Oizumi portrays Tokushige Ryo, the chief producer at Dainichi Television, the network in charge of broadcasting the Tokyo–Hakone round-trip student relay race commonly known as the Hakone Ekiden. Through his role, the drama highlights the intense decision-making, pressure, and teamwork required to sustain a live broadcast of such scale.
Scheduled to air in October 2026, Oretachi no Hakone Ekiden combines sports drama with a realistic portrayal of the media industry. By framing the Hakone Ekiden as both a physical and logistical marathon, the series aims to shed light on the passion and perseverance shared by those on the course and those working tirelessly behind the cameras.
