A wave of headlines continues to surround actress Mei Nagano (25) following allegations of an affair with actor Kei Tanaka (40), as Shukan Bunshun reported earlier this week. But the drama isn’t confined to the screen—sources say Nagano’s screen time in her current TBS series Caster may already be seeing a quiet reduction.

The Bunshun article alleged that Nagano and Tanaka were seen spending time together at her Tokyo home. It also referenced her increasing closeness with Korean actor Kim Mu-Jun (26), another Caster co-star. Both agencies denied any romantic involvement, with Nagano’s team stating that she’s been advised against any behavior that could cause misunderstandings.

While the stars push back on the claims, the impact may already be underway behind the scenes. According to insiders involved with the show, sponsors and networks have begun watching public reaction closely. “Viewers might start linking her character’s integrity with the headlines,” said one staff member, suggesting that her role may be subtly scaled back. Producers are reportedly shifting more attention toward Naniwa Danshi’s Shunsuke Michieda, who could see an expanded role as the story develops.

Caster explores the ethics of journalism, with Hiroshi Abe playing an uncompromising anchor determined to expose the truth. Nagano portrays a passionate news director, and her fiery exchange from the first episode—accusing Abe’s character of “breathing lies”—has ironically come full circle. “It’s turned into a bit of a boomerang moment,” said one source from the set.

Though her agency has denied relationships with both Tanaka and Kim Mu-Jun, those who’ve worked with Nagano say her openness with co-stars may have led to misunderstandings. “She’s friendly with everyone, sometimes inviting senior actors out for dinner. It’s all in good faith, but it can blur lines.”

Tanaka, who has two daughters and has been married since 2011, is known for his laid-back, nightlife-friendly persona. While past rumors haven’t stuck, he’s also less visible in commercials. Advertising professionals suggest Nagano faces more risk: “He’s not a major presence in the ad world anymore. But Nagano ranked in last year’s top 10 for endorsements. Her image is a bigger asset—and more vulnerable.”

Even amid the media swirl, Nagano remains in demand. She’ll appear in the film Kakukaku Shikajika premiering May 16 and is already set to star in NHK’s next major historical drama Toyotomi Brothers! slated for 2026. Whether the current headlines alter her long-term trajectory—or simply become a passing storm—remains to be seen.

Stay tuned as developments around Caster unfold, both on and off screen.