Kusanagi Tsuyoshi and Nukumi Meru starring together! TIS Intec Group’s new commercial “Can’t Leave That Wish Alone” will start airing on August 19th.

草彅剛（Kusanagi Tsuyoshi, born July 9, 1974) is a Japanese actor, singer, and entertainer. He debuted as a member of the idol group SMAP and, following the group’s disbandment, has continued his career as an actor, earning high praise for his performances in various dramas and films. He is represented by the talent agency CULEN.
Early Life and Career
Birthplace: Ehime Prefecture, Japan (raised in Saitama Prefecture)
Date of Birth: July 9, 1974
Agency: CULEN
Career Beginnings
Kusanagi joined Johnny & Associates in 1987 and debuted as a member of SMAP in 1988. SMAP not only excelled in music but also became a national icon in Japan through their variety shows, dramas, and movies. After SMAP disbanded, Kusanagi continued to focus on his acting career, showcasing his versatility and depth in a variety of roles.
Notable Works
Television Dramas
Boku no Ikiru Michi (My Life Path) (2003, Fuji TV)Role: Hideo Nakamura
Overview: Played a teacher diagnosed with a terminal illness, delivering a deeply emotional performance that resonated with audiences.
Specialist (2016, TV Asahi)Role: Yoshito Takuma
Overview: Starred in this crime drama as a former inmate who helps solve cases, portraying a unique and complex character.
Uso no Sensou (War of Lies) (2017, Fuji TV)Role: Koichi Ichinose
Overview: Led this suspense drama centered on revenge, delivering a meticulously crafted performance.
Films
Yomigaeri (Resurrection) (2003)Role: Heita Kawada
Overview: A fantasy film about the resurrection of the dead, where Kusanagi played a character with deep, conflicting emotions.
BALLAD: Nameless Song of Love (2009)Role: Matahachi
Overview: A historical fantasy set in the Sengoku period, where he portrayed a samurai, receiving praise for his portrayal.
Midnight Swan (2020)Role: Nagisa
Overview: Played a transgender woman in this powerful drama, earning widespread acclaim and multiple awards for his delicate yet compelling performance.
Awards
Japan Academy Prize for Best Actor (2021)Awarded for his performance in Midnight Swan.
Blue Ribbon Award for Best Actor (2021)Recognized for his role in Midnight Swan.
Kinema Junpo Best Ten Best Actor (2021)Honored for his profound portrayal in Midnight Swan.
Hobbies and Skills
Guitar: Kusanagi enjoys playing the guitar, a skill honed during his time in SMAP.
Cooking: He is an enthusiastic cook and frequently prepares meals at home.
Walking: He loves walking in nature, often taking walks to relax and clear his mind.
For more detailed information, please refer to: 草彅剛 – Wikipedia

Meru Nukumi (born March 6, 2002) is a Japanese model, TV personality, and actress from Inazawa City, Aichi Prefecture. She began her career as an exclusive model for Popteen and later expanded her presence by appearing on variety shows and TV dramas, gaining popularity. She is currently represented by Topcoat.
Major Activities
Modeling Career
Popteen: In 2015, she won the grand prize at the Popteen exclusive model audition and began her career as an exclusive model.
Television Dramas
Wasteful Days of High School Girls (2020, TV Asahi) – Played the role of Saku Momoi, portraying a unique character in this comedy drama.
Kane no Kime wa Koi no Hajimari (2020, TBS) – Played the role of Minami Inoue in this romance drama.
Rikokatsu (2021, TBS) – Played the role of Yumi Kozo in this drama about marriage, portraying a character from the younger generation.
Variety Shows
Hirunandesu! (NTV): Regular appearance, gaining popularity with her bright personality.
Shabekuri 007 (NTV): Frequently appears as a guest on various variety shows, receiving support from a wide audience.
Films
Horimiya (2021): Starred as the lead role, Isumi Miyamura, in this film adaptation of the popular manga.
Other Activities
Commercials: Appeared in numerous commercials for various companies, further expanding her recognition.
YouTube: Operates her own YouTube channel, where she shares fashion and lifestyle content.
Awards
32nd Japan Jewelry Best Dresser Award – Teen Category (2021)
Meru Nukumi – Wikipedia