Hey! Say! JUMP member Yamada Ryosuke (18) will be starring in his first historical drama as 'Yamada Akiyoshi' in the TBS New Year's� special, "Shirarezaru Bakumatsu no Shishi: Yamada Akiyoshi Monogatari".

Yamada revealed, "When I first received the offer, I thought, 'Can I really do it?'. I was unsure of myself." However, after visiting the location of the drama in Uzumasa, Kyoto, Yamada felt convinced that he could successfully swing the role. "When I put on the wig and costume, I was given a strong belief that I could do it," he asserted.

Set after the Meiji Restoration Period, the drama will reflect upon Akiyoshi's youth.�Akiyoshi was born into the Choshu Domain, and entered Yoshida Shoin's private academy called Shoka Sonjuku. He then founded Nihon University (Nihon Law School at the time) and Kokugakuin University.

The later years of Akiyoshi will be played by Watari Tetsuya (69). Other cast members include Izumi Pinko (64), Goda Masashi (41), and Kiriyama Akito (22) of Kansai Johnny's Jr.

Source: Sponichi Annex
Image: Shirazeraru Bakumatsu no Shishi: Yamada Akiyoshi Monogatari Official Website