Last Friends (2008 Japanese TV Series)

Last Friends is a Japanese television drama series that aired on Fuji TV from April 10 to June 19, 2008. The series, consisting of 11 episodes, focuses on the lives of several young adults who navigate complex personal challenges and eventually find themselves living together in a shared house. The narrative addresses sensitive social themes, including domestic violence, sexless relationships, and individual identity.

Promotional poster for the television series Last Friends — Promotional artwork for the 2008 series Last Friends.

Plot Summary

The story centers on Michiru Aida, a hair stylist assistant who reconnects with her high school friend, Ruka Kishimoto. Ruka, an aspiring motocross racer, lives in a share house with her friend Eri Takigawa. While Ruka invites Michiru to join them, Michiru initially declines, choosing instead to move in with her boyfriend, Sosuke Oikawa, who works at a child welfare division. Although the relationship begins with promises of commitment, it soon deteriorates as Sosuke exhibits controlling and abusive behavior, leading Michiru to seek support from her friends.

Cast

The series features an ensemble cast portraying the primary residents of the share house and their associates:

Masami Nagasawa as Michiru Aida
Juri Ueno as Ruka Kishimoto
Eita as Takeru Mizushima
Ryo Nishikido as Sosuke Oikawa
Asami Mizukawa as Eri Takigawa

Masami Nagasawa, who portrays Michiru Aida.

Ryo Nishikido, who portrays Sosuke Oikawa.

Asami Mizukawa, who portrays Eri Takigawa.

Reception

The series experienced a significant increase in viewership throughout its broadcast. While the premiere episode recorded a 13.9% rating, the final episode concluded with a 22.8% rating.