Q
Your character Alice comes to Japan without knowing she would suddenly become a mother of four children. What did you think when you first read the script?
A
The first thing that came to my mind was that this would be a very difficult role to play. Although Alice was shocked at first as she had no idea about the children before coming to Japan, she decides to stay with the Ban Family. I think I have to take the time to figure out her reasons behind her decision in order to play this role.
Q
Alice believes she has found her place in the Ban Family and tries to be a part of the family. What would you do if it were you?
A
Jeez, I don't know… I mean, Alice has a painful past, in which the viewers will eventually come to figure out as the story unfolds, and thinks that she can never go back to her home country. I believe Alice was able to make up her mind about staying with the Ban Family no matter what because of that. But as for myself, I can't really imagine what I would do in that situation.
Q
Are there anything that you pay special attention to when acting?
A
I feel that Ellie, the role I played in "Massan," was someone who tried to be more like Japanese. On the other hand, Alice is the opposite and determined to remain as she is; an American. I find it quite challenging when Alice speaks Japanese in a very direct and aggressive way.
Q
How do you feel now that shooting has begun and after acting your character?
A
I was able to sort of develop an idea (on how I would play the role of Alice) after reading the script, but what turned out to be actually difficult after we started shooting was the scenes with children. I mean I want to be all nice and kind to them, but on the set, I have many scenes where I'm fighting with them. That was very difficult for me.
Q
Sakurako played by Mana Ashida scrambles to kick Alice out of the Ban Family. What's your impression on Mana Ashida?
A
Mana has overflowing talent. I was so impressed by her because she seemed to remember all the lines perfectly. We just had this scene where we glare at each other, but we couldn't help but burst out laughing. I'm so happy to be working with her and I'm determined to always give my 100%. I believe children teach us as many thing as us adults teach them, so I hope to learn a lot from the children.
Q
It's exciting to see how the relationship between Sakurako and Alice who at first stand against each other gradually changes over time, and also how the relationship between the Ban Family and Alice develops as the story progresses.
A
I agree. I want the viewers to keep an eye on how Alice, who doesn't try act as the Japanese act, starts to blend in and become a part of the Ban Family, as well as how people who come from very different backgrounds learn to live together and form a bond.
Q
Lastly, could you give a message to fans of the show?
A
I'm so excited to be a part of this drama and working with such a talented cast, staff, writer and director. I hope the viewers will feel compassion and warmth of family ties and a sense of hope through the story. Please continue watching!
