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Ryoko Yonekura (born August 1, 1975, in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture) is a Japanese actress and model. She is widely recognized as one of Japan’s leading actresses, known for her charismatic presence and impressive acting skills, with numerous starring roles in both films and television dramas. She is currently represented by Desafio.
Career Beginnings
Ryoko Yonekura made her debut as a model in 1992 after winning the Special Jury Prize at the 6th “All Japan National Beauty Contest.” She transitioned to acting in 1999 with her debut in the drama “Koi no Kiseki” (“Miracle of Love”). In the 2000s, she appeared in numerous dramas and films, and in 2002, she landed her first lead role in the drama “Seikei Bijin” (“Artificial Beauty”). She became a household name with her role in the hit series “Doctor-X: Surgeon Michiko Daimon,” which solidified her status as a nationally beloved actress.
Notable Works
Television Dramas
Doctor-X: Surgeon Michiko Daimon (2012–2021, TV Asahi)
Role: Michiko Daimon
Overview: Yonekura plays a genius surgeon known for her catchphrase, “I never fail.” The series became a massive hit and is considered one of her signature works.
Kurokawa no Techo (2004, TV Asahi)
Role: Motoko Haraguchi
Overview: Yonekura portrays a cunning Ginza club owner navigating through power struggles, earning high praise for her serious acting.
The Negotiator (2008–2009, TV Asahi)
Role: Reiko Usagi
Overview: She starred as a negotiator in the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, engaging in intense negotiations with criminals in this suspense drama.
Films
The Negotiator: Masayoshi Mashita (2005)
Role: Haruka Katayama
Overview: A spin-off from the “Odoru Daisosasen” (“Bayside Shakedown”) series, where Yonekura played a significant role.
April Fools (2015)
Role: Ayumi Nitta
Overview: A comedy film in which Yonekura’s character becomes embroiled in unexpected developments.
The Great War of Archimedes (2019)
Role: Satomi Akagi
Overview: A historical drama where she played a pivotal role.
Stage
CHICAGO (2012–)Role: Roxie Hart
Overview: Yonekura became the first Japanese actress to star in the Broadway musical “Chicago,” earning critical acclaim even in New York.
Awards
Japan Academy Film Prize, Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role (2007)
Overview: Awarded for her performance in “The Negotiator: Masayoshi Mashita.”
Elan d’or Award, Newcomer of the Year (2000)
Overview: Recognized for her early achievements in dramas and films.
Hashida Award (2014)
Overview: Honored for her performance in “Doctor-X.”
Hobbies & Skills
Hobbies: Dance, travel
Dance: Yonekura has honed her dance skills from her modeling days and continues to showcase them in musicals.
Travel: She enjoys visiting various countries, particularly interested in historical architecture in Europe.
Skills: English, horseback riding
English: Yonekura has polished her English skills for international activities and often conducts interviews in fluent English.
Horseback Riding: An accomplished equestrian, she incorporates horseback riding into her acting roles.
For more detailed information, please visit: Ryoko Yonekura – Wikipedia