Kanjani 8's Maruyama Ryuhei will be playing his first lead role in TV Asahi's upcoming drama series, 'Boys on the Run'.

Maruyama will play the role of Tanishi Toshiyuki, a 27-year-old man who has never had a girlfriend. He revealed, "I feel that I can relate to the protagonist Tanishi Toshiyuki. My face also turns red when I become nervous." He also expressed, "I've been given this chance, so I will give it everything I have! I want to run with 'Boys on the Run'!"

'Boys on the Run' is based on a popular manga by Hanazawa Kengo, which was serialized in the magazine, 'Big Comic Spirits'. It received a film adaptation back in 2010 starring Mineta Kazunobu. The story revolves around Tanishi Toshiyuki, a hopeless 27-year-old businessman who works for a toy making company. He falls in love with his colleague Uemura Chiharu, but isn't able to make a move. One day, an elite salesman named Aoyama Takahiro approaches Chiharu and a relationship starts to blossom.

Taira Airi will play Tanishi's gym trainer Oiwa Hana, Minami Akina will play Chiharu, and�Saito Takumi will play Aoyama. Ueda Tatsuya (KAT-TUN), Jinnai Takanori, Sato Eriko, and Asada Miyoko will also star.

Maruyama made his drama debut in 'Uta no Oniisan' back in 2009. He commented, "I'm excited to be able to challenge myself to something new again. Even if I'm not good at it, I want to do my best recklessly."

TV Asahi will air 'Boys on the Run' every Friday night from 11:15 pm starting in July.

Source: Mantan Web