Kohei Matsushita has joined the cast of the 2026 NHK Taiga drama Toyotomi Brothers!, making his debut as Matsudaira Motoyasu—later known as Tokugawa Ieyasu. His appearance was revealed in Episode 3, “The Eve of the Decisive Battle,” which aired on January 18.
Starring Nakano Taiga, Toyotomi Brothers! focuses on the rise of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and his brothers during Japan’s turbulent Sengoku period. The introduction of Ieyasu, one of the “Three Great Unifiers” alongside Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, significantly raises the historical and dramatic stakes of the series.
Matsushita portrays Ieyasu at a formative stage in his life, before he emerged as the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. At this point, Matsudaira Motoyasu is still navigating shifting alliances and political pressures, balancing survival with long-term ambition. The drama highlights his patience and restraint—traits that would later define his rule.
Throughout the history of Taiga dramas set in the Sengoku era, Tokugawa Ieyasu has appeared repeatedly, sometimes as the protagonist and other times as a powerful rival or key ally to the central figure. His adaptability and longevity make him a uniquely compelling presence, and portrayals of Ieyasu have varied widely depending on the actor and narrative focus of each production.
As a result, discussions of “Ieyasu actors” have become a familiar topic among Taiga drama viewers. Each interpretation adds a new layer to the public image of the historical figure, reflecting both the era depicted and contemporary perspectives on leadership and power.
With its ensemble cast of distinctive and well-known performers, Toyotomi Brothers! positions Matsushita’s Ieyasu as a crucial element in the unfolding story. Known for his controlled, nuanced performances, Matsushita’s casting has drawn attention as a bold and significant step in his career.
As the series continues, audiences will be watching closely to see how this version of Ieyasu shapes the narrative—and how he stands alongside the many portrayals that have come before him.
