Toshiyuki Nishida

1.1. Early Life and Education

Toshiyuki Nishida was born as 今井 敏行_{Imai Toshiyuki}^Japanese on November 4, 1947, in Kōriyama, Fukushima Prefecture. His biological father, Izumi Imai, worked at the Kōriyama Postal Savings Bureau and came from the Imai family, who had served as karō, or top-ranking samurai officials, in Izumi Province's Hota Domain. Nishida's given name, "Toshiyuki," meaning "to act swiftly without being disturbed by anything," was bestowed by his father, inspired by a passage from the Analects of Confucius.

When Nishida was young, his biological father passed away. His mother, Kie, supported them by working as a beautician. At the age of five, after Kie remarried a fellow beautician, Nishida was adopted by his maternal aunt, Miyo, and her husband, Tatsuji Nishida, at his aunt's request. His adoptive father's ancestors had served the Shimazu clan in Satsuma Domain and participated in the Anglo-Satsuma War. Tatsuji Nishida was a former Imperial Japanese Army soldier who served in Iturup Island during the war and was later detained in Siberia after the war. He worked at the Kōriyama City Hall until retirement, but the family's financial situation remained difficult, leading them to live in the office of the historic Kaguyama Shrine in Kōriyama.

During his childhood, Nishida frequently visited movie theaters with his adoptive father, developing a passion for chanbara films and dreaming of appearing on screen. In junior high school, he excelled in Japanese and English and began to consider acting as a profession, receiving strong support from his parents. He became concerned about his Fukushima dialect limiting his acting opportunities and, desiring to learn Standard Japanese, moved to Tokyo after graduating from junior high to attend Meiji University Nakano High School, which was known for producing actors. In high school, he initially joined the volleyball club but was later recruited by the drama club, which needed male members. He also spent a day observing gorillas at Ueno Zoo to study their movements. In 1966, he enrolled in the evening program of Japan Acting Academy, later transferring to the day program. After graduating in 1967, he co-founded the theater company "Theater 67" with friends, though it disbanded a year later. During this period, he made his television acting debut in the TBS drama Atsumi Kiyoshi no Naite Tamaruka.

1.2. Acting Debut and Early Career

In 1968, Nishida entered the Seinenza Theater Company's acting training program, becoming a full member in 1970. He made his stage debut in July of that year in Seinenza's production of Jōchi. A review in "Teatro" magazine praised him as "an interesting actor named Toshiyuki Nishida," a clipping he treasured. His mentor, Shōkō Nakadai, encouraged him to make "being an interesting actor" his lifelong mission, a philosophy Nishida embraced, stating he never aspired to merely be a "good actor." In October 1971, he was quickly cast in a leading role in Sharaku Kō, showcasing his promising talent.

Despite some initial struggles in his acting career, Nishida gained attention in 1976 with his regular appearances in TBS dramas Igokochi Manten and Sannin Sannyo Muko Ippiki. His versatile and distinctive acting style, coupled with his charming demeanor and physique, earned him popularity, notably holding his own against the improvisational genius of Hisaya Morishige. In 1977, he joined the cast of TV Asahi's Tokusō Saizensen, and in 1978, he became a regular in Nippon Television's Saiyuki as a prominent character. By 1980, he landed lead roles in Ikenaka Genta 80 kg (NTV) and Thank You Sensei (TV Asahi). In 1981, he took a semi-lead role in the NHK Taiga drama Onna Taikō-ki, further solidifying his presence in continuous drama series.

Nishida also pursued a vibrant singing career. His single "Moshimo Piano ga Hiketanara", released in April 1981 as the theme song for the second season of Ikenaka Genta 80 kg, became a major hit. His charismatic personality, improvisational skills, and comedic talent made him a popular figure in variety shows and comedy shows like Migoro! Tabegoro! Waraigoro!, where he showcased his multifaceted talents beyond acting. He holds the unique distinction of being the only person to have appeared in all four basic capacities at the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen (New Year's Eve song festival): host, singer, judge, and supporter (five, if including narration).

1.3. Major Career and Public Success

In 1986, Nishida starred in the film Uemura Naomi Monogatari, portraying adventurer Naomi Uemura, an alumnus of Nishida's alma mater, Meiji University's Faculty of Agriculture, who went missing on Mount McKinley two years prior. The film involved extensive filming across five continents, including Mont Blanc, Mount Everest, Denali, and the North Pole, tracing Uemura's expeditions. Nishida described the seven-month long shoot as grueling, recalling that he faced death with resolve. He considered it a turning point, saying, "Facing nature, I deeply felt there are things you cannot resist. At the same time, the experience of acting amidst nature gave me so much that cannot be put into words." Two years later, in June 1988, he participated in another long location shoot in China for the film Dun-Huang, earning him the moniker "polar region actor."

From 1988, Nishida starred in the film series Tsuribaka Nisshi (The Fishing Maniac's Diary). His partnership with Rentaro Mikuni in this series spanned approximately 22 years, with 20 main films and two special editions, making it one of his signature works. Notably, Nishida's first film appearance was in 1974 in Banished Flag, also starring Mikuni. In 1994, he was cast as the third Tevye in the Toho musical Fiddler on the Roof, following Hisaya Morishige and Tsunehiko Kamijō, a role he performed for seven years.

His public roles extended to leadership within the industry. He served as the fifth president of the Japan Actors Union from 2009, succeeding Kotaro Satomi, where he worked on improving the quality and status of actors and addressing rights issues. He also held the position of vice president of the Japan Academy Film Prize Organization Committee. In 2010, alongside Rentaro Mikuni, he received the 33rd Japan Academy Prize Chairman's Award of Merit for their long-standing contributions to Japanese cinema through the Tsuribaka Nisshi series. Nishida was also named a 'Frontier Ambassador' for his hometown of Kōriyama City.

1.4. Health Issues and Continued Activity

Throughout his illustrious career, Toshiyuki Nishida faced several significant health challenges, yet consistently demonstrated resilience and a determination to continue his work.

In November 2001, he was hospitalized for cervical myelopathy, a condition where a deformed cervical bone compresses spinal nerves, causing numbness in his limbs. He underwent surgery on November 15 to relieve the nerve compression and was discharged the following month, quickly resuming his acting activities. In March 2003, he suffered a myocardial infarction at his home and was admitted to the hospital. Due to prompt treatment, his condition stabilized, and he was discharged on March 28. This hospitalization forced him to withdraw from a planned stage play, Chibusa, at Kinokuniya Hall, where a substitute actor took his place. Following this health scare, influenced by a letter from actress Sayuri Yoshinaga urging him to quit smoking, he declared he would stop. He also reduced his weight to 181 lb ^{(82 kg)} (previously 207 lb ^{(94 kg)}). In an interview after his recovery, he humorously remarked, "If I had died then, my last film would have been titled 'Get Up!', and I absolutely wanted to avoid that," showcasing his characteristic wit and reassuring the public of his full recovery.

On January 1, 2004, Nishida retired from the Seinenza Theater Company and moved to Office Koback, a new agency founded by his long-time manager, Yasuo Kobayashi, a former Seinenza staff member. This decision was influenced by his health and the passing of Akihisa Kanai, his mentor and former Seinenza producer, in October 2001.

In February 2016, Nishida suffered a fall from his bed at home, injuring his neck and being diagnosed with cervical subluxation. Although he continued filming for the drama Kazoku no Katachi, he missed a recording of Knight Scoop. He returned to the show's recording on February 26. On April 19, he underwent surgery to graft a part of his lumbar spine onto his cervical spine. Following this, he developed cholecystitis and underwent gallbladder removal surgery on May 12. He returned to work on May 19, narrating for Jinsei no Rakuen, and to television on June 3, recording for Knight Scoop. He was discharged on June 11.

During this period, false rumors regarding his health, including allegations of illegal drug use, spread online. In August 2016, his agency filed a damage report with the Akasaka Police Station and issued a warning statement, announcing their intent to identify those responsible for the "illegal postings" and pursue criminal and civil charges for obstruction of business and defamation. On October 4, at a press conference for the drama Doctor-X (Season 4), Nishida publicly and unequivocally denied the rumors, stating, "I am not a stimulant user." On July 5, 2017, the Akasaka Police Station referred three individuals to prosecutors on suspicion of forcible obstruction of business for disseminating false information, confirming that there was no evidence of drug use.

1.5. Death

Toshiyuki Nishida was found deceased at his home in Setagaya, Tokyo, on October 17, 2024, at the age of 76. He was discovered by his attendant, who found him unresponsive in his bed. Just nine days prior, on October 8, Nishida had attended a press conference for the film Doctor-X: The Movie and had work scheduled for the day he passed. His body was transferred to the police for examination immediately.

On October 18, his agency issued a statement confirming the cause of death as ischemic heart disease, a chronic heart condition he had been suffering from. His funeral was held on October 23 at a temple in Tokyo, attended by family. He was posthumously honored by the Japanese government with the Junior Fifth Rank, and on December 16, 2024, his hometown, Kōriyama City in Fukushima Prefecture, passed a resolution to bestow upon him the title of Honorary Citizen in recognition of his contributions. A public farewell ceremony was planned for February 18, 2025, at Zōjō-ji Temple in Tokyo.

2.1. Film

Nishida starred in numerous films, often in lead roles that earned him critical acclaim and awards.

2.2. Television

Nishida had a prolific career in television, particularly known for his extensive work in NHK Taiga dramas and various popular series.

2.3. Stage

Toshiyuki Nishida's stage career was marked by a wide range of roles, showcasing his versatility as a theatrical actor.

• Jōchi (Seinenza Theater, 1970)
• Dorama Night (Seinenza Theater, 1970)
• Hōyō Kazoku (Seinenza Theater, 1971)
• Sharaku Kō (Haiyūza Theater, 1971; Kinokuniya Hall, 1972, 1977)
• Higeki Onna Keizu (Seinenza Theater, 1971)
• Meiji no Hitsugi (Kinokuniya Hall, 1973)
• Kamigami no Shi (Kinokuniya Hall, 1973)
• Watashi wa Ruvi (Haiyūza Theater, 1975)
• The Good Person of Szechwan (Kinokuniya Hall, 1978)
• Meido no Sanjūgo Daikiri (National Theatre Small Theater, 1979)
• A Streetcar Named Desire (Kinokuniya Hall, 1979)
• Bōken Dankichi no Bōken (Kinokuniya Hall, 1981)
• Edo no Rokudenashi (Sunshine Theatre, 1982)
• Yajikita (Sunshine Theatre, 1985)
• Karayuki-san (Sunshine Theatre, 1990)
• Fiddler on the Roof (Imperial Theatre, 1994-2001; Umeda Koma Theater, 2001)
• Tsukuzuku Akai Fūsha - Kobayashi Issa (Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Tent Theatre, 1995)
• Reset (Kinokuniya Hall, 1999)

2.4. Dubbing and Voice Acting

Nishida also lent his distinctive voice to various animated films and foreign film dubs.

• Ganbare!! Tabuchi-kun!! series (1979-1980) as Tabuchi-kun
• Robots (2005) as Bigweld
• A Letter to Momo (2012) as Iwa
• The Jungle Book (2016) as Baloo (Japanese dub)

3.1. Music

Nishida maintained an active singing career throughout his life, releasing numerous singles and albums. His song "Moshimo Piano ga Hiketanara" (1981) became a major hit. He contributed to drama and film soundtracks, notably "LOVE: Rabusongu o Tsukuro" (1988) for the drama Neko, Funjatta! and "Cold to Me" (1991) for Tsuribaka Nisshi 4. He also performed the theme song "Zettai Ichiban" (1994) for KDD's commercial. His music also included collaborations, such as "MY LOVELY TOWN" with Kiyohiko Ozaki (2007) and a duet with his long-time friend Shigeru Matsuzaki on "Yume ni Kakuremasho" (2022). Nishida sang two songs for NHK's children's program Minna no Uta: "Noraneko Sandogasa" (1980) and "Konna Hi ga Hoshikatta" (1984). He also appeared in music videos, including "I love you & I need you Fukushima" by Inawashirokos.

3.2. Entertainment and Hosting

Nishida was a prominent figure in Japanese variety television, recognized for his humorous nature and ad-libbing skills. He co-hosted Hustle Ginza with Shigeru Matsuzaki (1975) and Nishida Toshiyuki, Junko Sakurada no Mochiron Seikai with Junko Sakurada. He also served as a host for programs such as Nantettatte Kōkishin (Fuji TV), Chikyū wa Bokura no Takarajima (ABC), Heisei Fushigi Tankentai (ABC), and Kore wa Shitte Night (ABC).

His most notable role as a host was as the second chairman of ABC's popular variety show Knight Scoop. He took over from Ryūtarō Kamioka in January 2001 and served for approximately 19 years, until November 2019. Nishida's deep emotional connection to the show's segments, often shedding tears over heartfelt requests, significantly shaped the program's identity. Producer Osamu Matsumoto once remarked that Nishida's ability to move audiences to tears was unique among actors, elevating the emotional impact of the show. Even after stepping down, he maintained close contact with the program's staff and cast. He also served as the second narrator for TV Asahi's Jinsei no Rakuen from 2003 until his passing in 2024.

Nishida made multiple appearances on NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen. He participated as a singer four times, performing "Moshimo Piano ga Hiketanara" (1981, 1990) and "Ano Machi ni Umarete" (2011), and "Hana wa Saku" (2012). He also served as a supporter for the White Team (1977, 1978), a judge (1989, 2009), and the White Team host (1990), making him the only person to fulfill all these roles.

3.3. Commercials

Toshiyuki Nishida endorsed numerous brands and products throughout his career, leveraging his approachable public image.

• Big John (1975)
• Nissin Foods Futo-men Ajisuke (1976)
• Canon Card-type Calculator (1978-1979)
• Lion Yushi Look, Glass Look (1979)
• Prima Meat Packers
• Japan Airlines (1982)
• Esso (1982-1983)
• Snow Brand Neo Soft (1982-1987)
• Tokyo Gas Gas FF Heater (1983-1984)
• Dai-ichi Life Insurance (1985) (including family appearance for "Grand Life Family" CM)
• Bookローン (Reblock, 1980s-1990, sang CM song)
• Daito Trust Construction (1990)
• Mizkan (Ajipon, 1990-1992)
• Asahi Breweries
• S&B Foods (5/8 Chips)
• Asahi Solar
• KDD (later KDDI) (CM song "Zettai Ichiban" became a hit)
• NTT West
• Haruyama Trading
• Toyota (Camry)
• Kanebo Home Products (Tabi no Yado)
• Nisseki (Nisseki One-Up Jockey, Nisseki Ina Break)
• Mitsubishi Electric
• AC Japan (Public Advertising Council)
• Sapporo Brewery
• Calpis (Kenchao)
• Earth Pharmaceutical (Earth Red series, 2002-2004)
• Jumbo Lottery (initially as "Yumezo Nishida," a new singer resembling Toshiyuki Nishida, then as Toshiyuki Nishida from 2010)
• U-Can Correspondence Courses
• ArtNature
• Everlife (Kōjun)
• Koikeya (Potato Chips PREMIUM, 2010-)
• Megane Top (Megane Ichiba)
• Suzuki (Alto Eco)
• Suntory Whisky Hibiki (narration)
• McDonald's Japan Chicken Tatsuta (2020)

4.1. Anti-War and Peace Activism

Nishida's strong anti-war and pacifist beliefs were profoundly influenced by his mother, who consistently expressed her deep aversion to war and the thought of him serving as a soldier. He often quoted her saying, "War brings nothing to either victors or losers," a sentiment that deeply resonated with him.

During his time at Meiji University in the 1960s, Nishida was involved in student movements. He advocated for the preservation of the former site of the Noborito Institute, a facility involved in the development of biological and chemical weapons, as evidence of Japan's past aggressive warfare. This advocacy later contributed to the establishment of the Meiji University Peace Education Noborito Institute Museum.

Nishida firmly believed that to prevent Japan from engaging in war again, a greater number of citizens must learn the true history and reflect on past mistakes. He served as a proponent for the "Peace Through War Exhibition" (organized by the Japan-China Friendship Association) alongside prominent figures like Yōji Yamada, Tetsuko Kuroyanagi, and Seiichi Morimura. This exhibition, utilizing photographs, artifacts, and testimonies from war survivors, aimed to expose atrocities committed during Japan's invasion, including those by Unit 731 and Unit 100, the Nanjing Massacre, and the comfort women problem.

He was a staunch proponent of Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution, which renounces war and the maintenance of military forces. He stated, "Article 9 of the Constitution must be absolutely upheld" and praised it as "a beautiful clause wishing for peace, unlike any other country." Conversely, he was critical of Yasukuni Shrine, viewing it as a symbol of militarism. Nishida also contributed celebratory messages for the 55th anniversary of Akahata Sunday Edition, urging the newspaper to "continue its efforts so that Japan never goes to war again." He also famously stated, "I sometimes hear people say Japan is 'peace-dazed,' but why must we force tension? If it's peaceful, isn't it alright to be dazed?"

4.2. Political Views and Social Engagement

Nishida frequently asserted his political convictions, stating that "there is a way for actors of the baby-boomer generation to take responsibility" and that "actors must also be political." Despite his predominantly liberal political leanings, he maintained friendships and collaborated frequently with figures of conservative views, such as Tetsuya Takeda, Knight Scoop scriptwriter Naoki Hyakuta, fellow detective Kanning Takeyama, and advisor Zakoba Katsura II. These individuals expressed their condolences upon his passing.

His commitment to social engagement was also evident in his continued relationship with Tarō Yamamoto, the leader of the Reiwa Shinsengumi political party, with whom he had co-starred in films. Nishida maintained contact with Yamamoto even after the latter transitioned into politics, as confirmed by Yamamoto's condolences on X (formerly Twitter). However, Yamamoto's past remarks on the Fukushima disaster, which were perceived as exacerbating reputational damage, led to criticism against him for seemingly leveraging Nishida's death for political gain.

4.3. Cultural Exchange with China

Nishida had a deep and long-standing connection with China, evident in his name's origin, his career-defining roles, and his active participation in cultural exchange. His given name, "Toshiyuki," comes from a passage in Confucius's Analects, connecting him to Chinese thought from an early age. His breakthrough role as Pigsy in Saiyuki and his leading role in Dun-Huang, for which he won his first Japan Academy Award, were both deeply connected to Chinese culture.

These experiences, along with his participation in a documentary on China for the 15th anniversary of Japan-China normalization and the filming of Dun-Huang in China, led him to deepen his ties with the country. In 1987, he joined the Japan-China Cultural Exchange Association, one of seven Japan-China friendship organizations. For over 30 years, he actively supported and organized various events to introduce Chinese culture to the Japanese public, including the "Chinese Film Week" at the Tokyo International Film Festival and the China Festival. He also contributed to disaster relief efforts in China, such as for the 2008 Sichuan earthquake and during the COVID-19 pandemic, by donating aid through the Embassy of China in Japan.

Nishida was a fervent advocate for Japan-China friendship and admired Kakuei Tanaka for achieving the normalization of diplomatic relations, suggesting Tanaka deserved a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. As a pro-China pacifist, he was revered by Chinese fans, who affectionately called him "Minmin." In February 2016, when news broke of his cervical subluxation injury, his agency received over 1,000 get-well messages from Chinese fans. On February 27 of the same year, CCTV's movie channel aired two consecutive Tsuribaka Nisshi films as a special tribute titled "Condolences to our old and good friend, Toshiyuki Nishida." He also annually sent Chinese New Year greetings, urging for more Japan-China cultural exchange in film and television to foster better relations.

Following his death in October 2024, Mao Ning, the spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed condolences at a press conference, stating that Nishida had "contributed to enhancing the friendly feelings between the peoples of the two countries." This marked only the second time the Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed condolences for a deceased Japanese actor since Ken Takakura in 2014. In recognition of his long-standing contributions to peace and Japan-China cultural and artistic exchange, Nishida was posthumously awarded the "Confucius Peace Art Award" at the 9th "Confucius Prize" ceremony in December 2024.

4.4. Aspiration to Portray Kakuei Tanaka

Toshiyuki Nishida expressed a lifelong ambition to portray former Japanese Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka. He frequently voiced this desire in interviews and his autobiography, Actor's Life: Laughter and Tears (2016). Nishida was fascinated by Tanaka's complex character, stating, "As a person and as a politician, he had a captivating charm that encompassed both purity and corruption. His demeanor, his peddler-like voice, his talent for charming people. But I also feel that he might have been an ordinary old man who fully embodied 'Kakuei,' neither a hero nor a villain." He further elaborated, "Japanese people have a certain yearning for that kind of old man. Clean-cut old men are good, but we're drawn to old men who embrace both purity and corruption. I want to portray Mr. Kakuei with both his achievements and his faults."

Nishida's wish to play Tanaka was ultimately unfulfilled due to various circumstances and his passing. However, he reiterated this desire even in 2023, telling Kanning Takeyama, "I really want to do that, as an actor, the eventful life of Tanaka, regardless of ideology... but it seems to be very difficult."

He frequently cited Tanaka's role in normalizing Japan-China diplomatic relations, asserting, "Former Prime Minister Eisaku Satō received the Nobel Peace Prize for the return of Okinawa, but I think Mr. Kakuei, who achieved Japan-China normalization, also deserved the award." Nishida also expressed a particular desire to act out the famous scene where Tanaka exchanged Maotai liquor with Zhou Enlai during the normalization talks, even suggesting a two-hour drama focusing solely on their interactions during that historic moment.

5.1. National Honors

The Japanese government bestowed several significant honors upon Nishida:

• Medal with Purple Ribbon** (2008): Awarded for his long-standing achievements in the performing arts.
• Order of the Rising Sun, 4th Class, Gold Rays with Rosette** (2018): One of Japan's highest civilian honors, awarded for his significant contributions to public life.
• Junior Fifth Rank** (2024): A posthumous court rank conferred by the Japanese government upon his death.
• Honorary Citizen of Kōriyama City** (2024): A posthumous honor from his hometown, Fukushima Prefecture, approved by the city council in December 2024.

5.2. Film and Television Awards

Nishida's acting performances garnered numerous prestigious awards:

• Japanese Academy Awards**:
  • Best Actor:
    • 1989: Dun-Huang
    • 1994: Gakko
  • Excellence in a Leading Role:
    • 1987: Uemura Naomi Monogatari
    • 1993: Kantsubaki
    • 1997: Gakko II
    • 2004: Get Up! and Tsuribaka Nisshi 14
  • Excellence in a Supporting Role:
    • 1985: Station to Heaven
    • 1992: Dreams of Russia
    • 2018: Miracles of the Namiya General Store
  • Chairman's Award of Merit (2010): For his long-standing contributions to the Tsuribaka Nisshi series.
  • Association Honor Award (2025): Posthumous award.
• Blue Ribbon Awards**:
  • Best Actor (2004): Get Up! and Tsuribaka Nisshi 14
• Nikkan Sports Film Awards**:
  • Best Actor (1993): Gakko
  • Best Supporting Actor (2011): Once in a Blue Moon, Hayabusa, and The Detective Is in the Bar
  • Special Award (2024): Posthumous award.
• Mainichi Film Concours**:
  • Best Actor (2003): Get Up! and Tsuribaka Nisshi 14
• Hochi Film Award**:
  • Best Actor (2003): Get Up! and Tsuribaka Nisshi 14
• Tokyo Sports Film Award**:
  • Best Actor (2013): Beyond Outrage
  • Best Actor (2018): Outrage Coda
• Yamaji Fumiko Film Award**:
  • Special Foundation Award (2017)
• Yokohama Film Festival**:
  • Special Grand Prize (2018)
• Tokyo Drama Awards**:
  • Best Supporting Actor (2021): Ore no Ie no Hanashi
• Golden Panda Award**:
  • Nominated for Best Supporting Actor (2023): Ore no Ie no Hanashi

5.3. Music and Other Awards

• Golden Arrow Award**:
  • Broadcasting Award (1977)
  • Special Award (1981)
  • Film Award (1988, 1993)
• Japan Comedian Association Award**:
  • Grand Prize (2012)
• Japan Theater Staff Film Festival**:
  • Best Supporting Actor (2012): Once in a Blue Moon
• Japan Film Critics Awards**:
  • Special Jury Acting Award (2012): Star Watching Dog
• NHK Broadcast Culture Award** (2013)
• Shimomachi Comedy Film Festival in Taito**:
  • Comedy Honor Award (2014)
• Japan Record Awards**:
  • Gold Prize (1981)
  • Special Achievement Award (2024): Posthumous award.
• Confucius Peace Art Award** (2024): Posthumous award by the World Confucius Association and World Confucius Foundation, recognizing his contributions to peace and Japan-China cultural exchange.

6.1. Unique Position in Taiga Drama

Nishida held an unparalleled position within NHK Taiga drama history. He appeared in a remarkable 14 Taiga dramas, from Shin Heike Monogatari (1972) to The 13 Lords of the Shogun (2022). More notably, he holds the record for the most lead roles in Taiga dramas, having starred as the protagonist four times: Sanga Moyu (1984), Tobu ga Gotoku (1990), Hachidai Shogun Yoshimune (1995), and Aoi (2000).

He frequently portrayed historical figures from the Tokugawa clan, including Tokugawa Yoshimune in Hachidai Shogun Yoshimune, Tokugawa Hidetada in Aoi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu in Kōmyō ga Tsuji (for which he used special makeup to achieve Ieyasu's characteristic large ears). He also famously played Toyotomi Hideyoshi in Onna Taikō-ki, where his line "Okaka" (a term of endearment for Hideyoshi's wife, Nene) became a buzzword (ryūkōgo) at the time. Nishida is the only actor to have portrayed two or more of Japan's Three Great Unifiers (Oda Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu) in Taiga dramas.

When he was asked to play Saigō Takamori in Tobu ga Gotoku, a friend from his hometown of Aizu (historically a rival of Satsuma) advised him, "Chōshū is no good, but Satsuma is fine," so he accepted the role. It was later revealed in the NHK program Family History (2017) that his adoptive father's ancestors were indeed Satsuma samurai, with his great-great-grandfather and grandfather having fought in the Anglo-Satsuma War and the Satsuma Rebellion. In 2013, he played Saigō Tanomo in Yae's Sakura, becoming only the second actor to portray both Saigō Takamori and Saigō Tanomo.

6.2. Influence on "Knight Scoop"

Nishida's 19-year tenure as the second chairman of Knight Scoop, a highly popular variety show in the Kansai region, profoundly shaped the program's identity. Taking over from Ryūtarō Kamioka in 2001, Nishida brought a more emotional and empathetic presence to the show. He was renowned for his frequent tears in response to heartfelt requests, a trait that became iconic and changed the program's "color." Producers noted that his genuine emotional responses, unlike those of professional storytellers, held a unique authenticity. Nishida often spoke in a mix of Kansai dialect and Standard Japanese, further endearing him to the Kansai audience. Even after his departure in 2019 due to physical limitations, he maintained close ties with the show's cast and crew through regular gatherings and group chats, demonstrating the lasting impact of his leadership and the bonds he forged.

6.3. Notable Friendships

Toshiyuki Nishida maintained deep and lasting friendships with several prominent figures. His closest bond was with singer Shigeru Matsuzaki. They were drinking buddies from their early twenties, sharing grievances and encouraging each other nightly. They developed a unique improvisational singing act, creating songs on the spot based on three audience-provided themes, a skill that leveraged both their vocal talents and musicality. This act became well-known in Tokyo's Roppongi district and led to their co-hosting the TBS program Hustle Ginza in 1975, where their impromptu song segment was popular. This program helped launch both their careers. Later, Nishida, Matsuzaki, Toshio Shiba, and Ken Tanaka formed a group called "Gonin-kai" (The Group of Five), maintaining their lifelong friendship.

Nishida was also a devoted fan of the Hanshin Tigers baseball team, although he was an honorary member of the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles fan club from his Fukushima background. His passion for the Tigers led to a long friendship with former baseball player Kōichi Tabuchi. Nishida voiced the character of Tabuchi-kun in the anime film series Ganbare!! Tabuchi-kun!! (1979), based on Tabuchi's life. This connection led to Tabuchi even appearing as a guest advisor on Knight Scoop, the show Nishida hosted.

6.4. East Japan Earthquake Relief Efforts

Following the devastating 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami and the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, which severely impacted his hometown of Fukushima Prefecture, Toshiyuki Nishida became a passionate advocate for recovery efforts. He actively participated in benefit concerts and other support activities, including visiting supermarkets in Koriyama to taste and promote local produce like vegetables and strawberries, helping to dispel safety concerns. He publicly expressed his profound anger, tearfully exclaiming, "Who defiled this beautiful Fukushima! Who did this to Fukushima! I'm truly, truly furious. Fukushima will never lose!"

He was also critical of the misinformation and anxiety caused by early, unconfirmed reports about Fukushima-produced beef, which led to their withdrawal and correction. In a newspaper interview, he stated, "I'm speechless. Once false rumors spread, it takes an enormous amount of time to clear them up." He voiced his indignation toward TEPCO and politicians responsible for promoting nuclear power. In Kanning Takeyama's 2019 book, Nishida recounted witnessing several men in a Tokyo restaurant loudly declaring that "Fukushima women cannot be married," an incident that enraged him and prompted his direct confrontation.

In a joint press conference in June 2011 with actor Bunta Sugawara for disaster victim support, Nishida passionately argued against nuclear power, stating that arguments against it had been dismissed as unrealistic until the disaster proved otherwise. He emphasized that Japan should "say NO to nuclear power." He also served as the narrator for the explanatory video at the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum (opened in 2020), further cementing his commitment to preserving the memory of the disaster and advocating for a safer future.

6.5. Public Image and Anecdotes

Toshiyuki Nishida cultivated a beloved and approachable public image, often characterized by his humor, improvisational talent, and generous spirit. He was known for his spontaneous performances at parties and gatherings, including impersonations of figures like Elvis Presley and Tetsurō Tamba. One of his popular acts was the "Chanson-style 'Yosaku'," where he would sing Saburō Kitajima's hit "Yosaku" in a faux French style, changing "Yosaku" to "Pierre" in the chorus.

In an autobiography written for elementary school students, Nishida shared a poignant anecdote about his mother: when he was a child and suffering from a cold, unable to sleep due to a stuffy nose, his mother would put her mouth to his nose and clear it for him. He used this story to convey the immense love and gratitude he felt for his mother.

Nishida was almost cast in the 49th Otoko wa Tsurai yo film, Tora-jiro Hana Henro, as the brother of the lead actress, Yūko Tanaka, a role that eventually led to his starring in the Rainbow over the Southern Alps series. There were even reports immediately after Kiyoshi Atsumi's death that Nishida was considered the most likely successor to play Tora-san.

His "good person" image sometimes led to humorous situations. For his role as the morally ambiguous Mataichi Zaizen in The Great White Tower, Nishida himself suggested wearing a fake mustache and wig to create a more "greedy" impression. At a press conference for the drama, he playfully quipped, "My character's name is Mataichi Zaizen, so please don't read it as 'Zaizen Nū' (New Zaizen)," making light of the situation. Another anecdote involves him reassuring his co-star, Masakazu Katsumura, who was worried about being recognized in a taxi. Nishida simply introduced himself to the driver, "I am actor Toshiyuki Nishida," showcasing his lack of pretense and directness.