Studio Dragon Considers Nagano Mei for New K-Drama Amidst Sakaguchi Love Triangle Controversy

Nagano Mei faces career crossroads after a dating scandal with Kentaro Sakaguchi surfaces.

Kentaro Sakaguchi, known for his clean image, faced a wave of backlash after reports claimed he was living with a hairstylist while allegedly linked to actress Nagano Mei. The story quickly dominated headlines, and although her agency denied the romance, the impact on Mei’s career was immediate.

She withdrew from NHK’s highly anticipated 2026 Taiga drama Toyotomi Brothers! citing the “trouble” caused by the reports. Several advertising contracts were suspended, leaving her professional image shaken.

Nagano Mei’s Fallout and Career Pause

Until recently, Mei was one of Japan’s most bankable young stars, admired for her bright, wholesome roles in dramas and commercials. But in the wake of the controversy, she has been forced to step back.

Advertisers have reportedly pulled multiple campaigns. She also faced rumors with actor Kei Tanaka and another Korean actor, though both parties denied wrongdoing. For fans, the question has been: where does she go from here?

Nagano Mei with Kei Tanaka at Press Conference (Credits: Modelpress)

Is Nagano Mei Eyeing a Wilder Role in Korean Dramas?

Japanese outlet Nikkan-Gendai added more fuel to the fire with a shocking claim. Their report suggested that Nagano Mei may have been approached by a Korean production company, allegedly Studio Dragon, to star in a drama with “濡れ場あり” (intimate scenes). The outlet framed it as Mei possibly making a “sexy actress transformation” and even a “world debut” through a Korean drama.

The same report states that production companies in Korea have quietly shown interest, and scripts have been circulated in private. But, as of now, nothing is confirmed. Her agency has not announced any deal or project yet.

Nagano Mei in J-drama The Gift of Your Heart (Credits: Fuji TV)

Where This Fits In Her Career & Speculation

Nagano Mei has built her image on youth, innocence, and soft roles in popular dramas and commercials. If this rumor proves to be true, it would mark a significant shift in how she is perceived in Japan and potentially across Asia.

For fans of K-dramas, this raises questions: would she accept such a role? How would it impact her reputation? Would Korean production companies be open to casting her this way?

Final Thoughts

Nagano Mei stands at a crossroads. Once beloved for her pure, innocent roles, she now faces pressure to redefine her career. Whether she takes on a bold K-drama role or not, fans across Japan and Korea are watching closely.

Would you like to see Nagano Mei return through a K-drama comeback? And if yes, should it be a bold transformation or a return to her classic charm?

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