Dori Sakurada: He is not just a pretty boy!

Dori Sakurada is a name that resonates deeply with fans of Japanese entertainment, especially those who appreciate multifaceted talent in acting, singing, and modeling. With a career spanning over a decade, Sakurada has enchanted audiences with his charismatic presence, dynamic performances, and unwavering work ethic.

Born on December 7, 1991, in Tokyo, Japan, Dori displayed an interest in the performing arts from an early age. Growing up in the vibrant city of Tokyo provided him with numerous opportunities to engage in various cultural and artistic pursuits. His passion for entertainment was clear, leading him to pursue a career in acting.

Sakurada’s entrance into the entertainment industry was characterized by a blend of determination and opportunity. Initially starting as a model, he quickly transitioned to acting. His first major breakthrough occurred in 2005 when he was cast in the popular musical Tennis no Ōjisama (“The Prince of Tennis”), portraying Ryoma Echizen. This role showcased not only his acting talent but also his flair for stage performances, particularly in musicals.

Rise to Fame

The pivotal moment in Sakurada’s career was his performance in Tennis no Ōjisama. This role opened numerous avenues for him within the Japanese entertainment landscape, allowing him to effortlessly transition into various acting roles on both television and film.

Notable Works

• Lead role in the musical “The Prince of Tennis” and the stage play “Frogs.”
• Starred in “Kamen Rider Den-O: Final Countdown” (2008) as Kotaro Nogami.
• Featured in the film “King’s Game,” released on December 17, 2012.
• Three films released in 2014: “MARCHING: Tomorrow,” “Werewolf Game: Beast Side,” and “Love at Gajimaru Shokudo.”
• Portrayed guitarist Kaito in “Rock Opera Psychedelic Pain” in 2015.
• Starred in the Netflix original drama “Atelier” from September 2, 2015.
• Played Hagita Suguru in “Orange,” released on December 12, 2015.
• Regular appearances in Fuji TV’s “HOPE: A Rookie Employee with Zero Expectations,” TV Tokyo’s “Koe Koi,” Fuji TV’s “Love Love Alien,” “Good Morning Call” (October 2016), and “The Courage to be Disliked” (January 2017). He also took on his first lead role in Fuji TV’s “Scum’s Wish.”

Television Dramas

Sakurada’s television career gained traction as he embraced diverse roles across various dramas. A standout performance came in the drama series Switch Girl!! in 2011, solidifying his reputation as a versatile actor capable of tackling different genres.

In 2019, he starred in the Netflix original series Alice in Borderland, playing the character Niragi. This series garnered international attention and showcased Sakurada’s ability to connect with a global audience. His portrayal of Niragi was both intense and captivating, earning accolades from fans and critics alike.

Notable dramas include:

• Good Morning Call (2016)
• The Courage to be Disliked
• Scum’s Wish (2017)
• Perfect Crime
• I’m Going Home on Schedule
• Coffee & Vanilla (2019)
• Guilty: Is This Love a Sin?
• Alice in Borderland (2020)

Film Appearances

Sakurada’s film career is equally remarkable, featuring roles in a variety of genres. In 2014, he starred in the romantic film Kimi ni Todoke, based on the beloved manga. His portrayal of Ryu Sanada was celebrated for its emotional depth and sincerity.

Another significant project was Chihayafuru, where he played Taichi Mashima. This film adaptation allowed Sakurada to showcase his range as an actor, effectively balancing the emotional complexities of his character with a compelling on-screen presence.

Notable films include:

• “Beck” (2010)
• “Jinro Game: Beast Side”
• “Gajimaru Shokudo no Koi” (2014)
• “Rock☆Opera Psychedelic Pain”
• “Orange” (2015)
• “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” (2017)
• “Grandma Road”
• “EVEN: A Song for You” (2018)
• “Back Street Girls -Gokudols-“
• “Ra” (2019)

Music Video Appearances

• Winter Love Story by Jyongri (2008)
• Ame ni Utaeba by monobright (2010)
• Gingham Check by AKB48 (2012)
• I Still Love You by Lisa Halim (2012)
• Tsubasa wa Iranai by AKB48 (2016)
• Aoi Signal by Magic of Life (2016)
• Kumu wo Nuketa Aozora by Da-iCE (2019)

Dori Sakurada: The Musician

In addition to his acting talent, Dori Sakurada has explored the music scene. His musical journey began with singles and albums that highlighted his vocal abilities. His style blends pop and rock, featuring catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics.

Musical Releases

Sakurada has released several singles and albums throughout his career. His debut single, Everydays, received positive acclaim and marked the start of his music journey. Following this, he released several albums that further solidified his status as a singer-songwriter. His music often reflects personal experiences and emotions, resonating with fans who value authenticity in artistry.

Although primarily recognized as a Japanese film actor, Dori Sakurada is also a musician who has produced original music under his own name and the alias “Even.” His band, EVEN, led by Taketo (played by Sakurada) in the film “EVEN – A Song for You,” announced their major debut with the single “Aino Uta” on May 30, 2018. The title song serves as the theme for the film, provided by Fujimura of the rock band Cider Girl.

Challenges and Triumphs

Like many artists, Dori Sakurada has encountered challenges along his path to success. The entertainment industry is highly competitive, and maintaining relevance requires constant growth and adaptation. Sakurada has remained at the forefront by continuously refining his craft and embracing diverse roles that test his abilities.

Overcoming Stereotypes

One challenge he faced was the “pretty boy” stereotype often associated with his early roles. Determined to break free from typecasting, he actively sought roles that allowed him to explore different aspects of his acting prowess. His performance in Alice in Borderland exemplifies his commitment to tackling complex and unconventional characters.

The Future of Dori Sakurada

As Dori Sakurada continues to forge his path in the entertainment industry, his future appears bright. With a solid foundation built from years of experience and a varied portfolio, he is ready to embrace more challenging roles and expand his international reach.

Upcoming Projects

While specific details about Sakurada’s upcoming projects remain under wraps, fans eagerly await his next endeavors. Whether it be a new drama, film, or musical project, Sakurada’s dedication to his craft ensures that his future work will be as impactful and engaging as his past achievements. His ability to surprise audiences with unexpected character choices keeps fans excited and curious about his next moves. Given his impressive track record, it would not be surprising to see him take on roles that challenge conventional storytelling, venturing into genres or characters yet to be explored in Japanese cinema or television.

Dori Sakurada made a striking appearance at the Kenzo Spring Summer 2025 collection presentation in Paris, France, on June 19, 2024.

Dori Sakurada’s journey in the Japanese entertainment industry showcases his talent, versatility, and perseverance. From his early days in Tennis no Ōjisama to his acclaimed role in Alice in Borderland, he has consistently delivered performances that captivate and inspire. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Dori Sakurada remains a dynamic force, leaving a lasting mark on the entertainment world. His story reflects not only success but also ongoing growth and dedication, establishing him as a true icon in the industry.