Ryosuke Yamada has been cast in NHK's Taiga drama 'Toyotomi Kyoudai!' ('Brothers in Arms'), marking his first appearance in the long-running historical drama series.

Yamada will portray Toyotomi Hidetsugu, a key figure whose fate has a major impact on the Toyotomi brothers. Starring Taiga Nakano as Toyotomi Hidenaga, the series follows the close bond between Hidenaga and his older brother Toyotomi Hideyoshi (Sosuke Ikematsu) as they work toward the unification of Japan.

The drama's new "Unification of Japan" arc begins with Episode 29, airing on July 26.

Commenting on the role, Yamada said, "I was very surprised by the offer. At the same time, I was grateful that they thought of me despite my limited experience with historical dramas. I've always hoped to appear in a Taiga drama someday, so it's a tremendous honor and a role that makes me feel the weight of the responsibility."

He also shared his hopes for the character, saying, "I want to create a character that makes viewers think, 'Who is this guy?' I hope to bring a new wind to 'Toyotomi Brothers!'"