Remember Yuka?
Remember Yuka, or was it Yuuka? Maybe you called her Yu-ka? However her name appeared in print, she was unforgettable. Her series of gravure videos back in 1998 and 1999: Breath, to, and be, became instant classic collectors’ items.
And if you look closely on the cdjapan page for each of these DVDs, you will see that on each of the DVD covers, her name appears as Yu-ka. Despite this, cdjapan lists her as Yuuka. And as you will see, her name has undergone yet another change.
She took leave of the gravure world after her Yuuka DVD in 2002, and headed for TV, print ads, and movies. She got work, and was never forgotten, but she was no longer a headliner.
My Girl Promo Banner (JPN)
That all changed this year when Yuka was was cast in the key role of Yoko in the TV-Asahi drama series “My Girl.”
Cast opposite Masaki Aiba in his first starring drama role, Yuka plays the part of his ex-girl friend. She broke off the relationship six years ago, and he (Aiba) has pined for her ever since.
One day he will learn that Yoko not only died in an accident but also gave birth to his daughter, who is now a delightful 5 year old girl.
The story will center around Aiba and his decision to take in and raise the little girl who is in fact his daughter.
But Yuka will appear in every episode via flashbacks. She’s now 29 and still looks as sweet as you may remember her from her videos made a decade ago.
The series began airing on Friday October 9th in the 11:15 PM slot, and will run through November 15th. Two episodes have already been broadcast, and I’ve managed to see the first one.
Thanks for this article… it’s nice to see Yuuka again after so many years, I can still remember scans of her in a blue bikini :D
You’re welcome. Thanks for reading and commenting. I’ve seen Part II and she still looks great. As I recal from her videos Breath, to, and be – I coopuldn’t decide whicj I liked best about her – her killer body, or her overall sweetness.
I’m glad she’s back in the public eye. This will lead to more roles for her.