Imada Mio: My motivation is to keep having fun

actress　Mio Imada(Imada Mio)

■ Profile
Originally from Fukuoka Prefecture, she moved to Tokyo at the age of 19 after joining her current agency. She has since appeared in numerous advertisements, dramas, and movies, and in 2022 won the Newcomer Actor Award at the 45th Japan Academy Awards for her role in "Tokyo Revengers." In the same year, her first leading role in the drama "Waru: Who Said Working Is Uncool?" aired. Her film "My Happy Marriage" is currently showing nationwide, and "Tokyo Revengers 2" is also scheduled to be released.

What made you decide to go into the entertainment industry?

I've been involved in the entertainment industry in my hometown of Fukuoka since I was in high school, and I've always loved this job. The turning point came when I got my first job in Tokyo in my third year of high school. It was a small role with maybe one line, but I still can't forget the impact I felt when I first experienced the atmosphere on set and the intensity of my co-stars. At that moment, I made up my mind that "this is what I want to do." After that, I was able to move to Tokyo thanks to a connection with my current agency. I was anxious because I couldn't imagine what the future held, but I think my desire to "I want to do this!" outweighed that anxiety.

◆Please tell us what the highlights of the movie are.

My Happy MarriageThe character she plays, Saimori Miyo, has given up on life due to the oppressive days she experienced at home, but the story begins when she begins living with her arranged marriage partner, Hisado Kiyotaka.
Please pay attention to how Miyo, who was stubborn due to her lack of confidence, gradually opens up to Kiyotaka and begins to regain her emotions. I also wanted to carefully portray the "gentle strength" that Miyo harbors within. This was the impression I had when I read the original work, and I think it's also Miyo's greatest charm. I hope you will be fully immersed in the worldview woven by Miyo, who, after meeting Kiyotaka, who is cold-hearted yet loving, discovers the happy life she had almost given up on.

◆Please give us a message for the students.

I found what I wanted to do by chance, which is how I got to where I am today, but I think there are many cases where people don't find anything they're interested in. But I hope you all continue to move forward. Believe that someday, somewhere, your path will open up, and enjoy your student life to the fullest.

■After the interview　

Imada-san is so active that there isn't a day that goes by that I don't see him, but he thought carefully and answered every question. His sincere attitude, behavior, and the way he spoke made me realize that he is someone who never forgets to be considerate of those around him.

Student Newspaper April 1, 2023 Issue by Rien Kanda, 4th year student at Japan Women's University