Actor Mahiro Takasugi

2026.09.30

The greatest appeal of acting is being able to deliver the message of the work to the audience.

◆Profile
Born on July 4, 1996, in Fukuoka Prefecture. He made his acting debut in 2009. He won the Sponichi Grand Prix Newcomer Award at the 72nd Mainichi Film Awards for his role in the film "Before We Vanish" (2017). He has appeared in the historical drama "To You, My Love" (2024) and the film "Tokyo Revengers 2: Bloody Halloween" (2023), among others.

◆Please tell us about the rewards of being an actor.

I believe the greatest appeal of this job is being able to deliver a message through my work to those who view it. I want to create a workplace where everyone can feel comfortable, while cherishing the idea of "let's all create a great work together."
One thing that is true of all my projects is that the moment I successfully complete a project is special, no matter how many times I experience it. Of course, there is a sense of fulfillment when the project is finished or when filming is complete, but I also feel a strong sense of accomplishment when I read the feedback I receive from everyone.

◆The movie "Even If Mom Is No Longer in This World, My Life Diary"Please share your thoughts on this.

This film is a work that I approached with respect for Kazu-san, Shoichi-san, and their family. Through the original work, the script, and the visuals, I tried to capture Shoichi-san's feelings as much as possible.
What I strongly felt through their choices was the importance of "leaving behind words." What can I leave behind for those who are left behind? I realized that there is great meaning in leaving behind things that allow people to feel the presence of that person even after they are gone, such as their voice, writing, or the ordinary scenes of everyday life.

◆Please give us a message for the students.

This work features characters who are close in age to many of you. However, many of you may feel that the events depicted are far removed from your own lives. I felt that way at first too. But in reality, it's a story that you can imagine relating to someone important to you or someone close to you. I would be happy if you could take a look at it from your own perspective.

■After the interview　
I was impressed by how sincerely they addressed each question, carefully choosing their words and answering thoughtfully.
The phrase, "By being recognized, that person 'exists'," really resonated with me. His sincere personality shone through in his thoughts about the work and his approach to his roles.

Student Newspaper, April 2026 Issue: Haruna Shoji, 4rd year student, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences

The movie "Even If Mom Is No Longer in This World, My Life Diary"

Nationwide release on Friday, July 2026, 10
Starring: Haruna Kawaguchi, Mahiro Takasugi
Original work: Kazu Endo, "Even If Mom Is No Longer in This World, My Life Diary" (published by Shogakukan)
Director: Yuki Yamato
Distributor: Toei
© Kazuo Endo / Shogakukan　
©2026 "Even If Mom Is No Longer in This World" Production Committee

Yurie Watanabe (3rd year, Josai International University) / Haruna Shoji (4th year, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences) / Sakura Yamashita (4th year, Tsuda University) / Karin Ishimatsu (4th year, Tsuda University) / Yuina Yamamoto (4th year, Keio University) / Ayami Matsuyama (2nd year, Aoyama Gakuin University)

Photography: Seita Hirota