Actress Sara Minami (Minami Sara) appeared as a guest on the June 27 episode of Nippon Television's program 'ANOTHER SKY,' presented by Google Pixel.
Since the beginning of this year, Minami has seen four films released, including two leading roles in 'All Greens' and 'Magamaga Onna,' all of which have drawn significant public attention. Additionally, at the recently held 25th New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF)—one of North America's largest film festivals—she was awarded the 'Rising Star Award,' which honors promising actors expected to make a significant impact on the international stage.
Recognized not only in Japan but also internationally for her powerful performances and commanding presence, Minami is now one of the most talked-about young actresses in the industry.
While often portraying mysterious, introspective characters in films and dramas—earning her a 'cool' and 'enigmatic' image—Minami revealed a completely different, authentic side of herself during her visit to Vietnam on the show.
Returning to Da Nang and Hoi An, Vietnam—places filled with cherished family vacation memories—for the first time in 13 years, Minami showed a lively, carefree side: laughing and playing on a banana boat, and openly confessing her fascination with giant creatures like dinosaurs and megalodons. Viewers reacted enthusiastically, commenting, 'I had no idea Sara-chan was this cheerful and fun!' and 'She seems so cool, but her genuine, adorable personality is overwhelming!'
Her unfiltered, authentic personality has also gained attention through audio media. Known for her talkative nature and passionate niche interests, Minami's popular appearances on Nippon Broadcasting System's 'All Night Nippon PODCAST' led to today's announcement that she will become the new host of the live broadcast 'All Night Nippon X (Cross)' airing on July 17 (Fri).
Behind her impressive achievements, Minami made a deeply personal revelation during the program: her previously unknown struggles during her teenage years. During her modeling days, she reportedly suffered intense feelings of inferiority by comparing herself to others, leading to periods of isolation at home. What pulled her through that dark period—and ultimately paved the way for her current success—was a simple yet powerful message from her father: 'Be original!'
Toward the end of the program, Minami was moved to tears by a surprise letter from her mother. Viewers responded emotionally, saying, 'To think she was confronting such deep insecurities as a teenager—it's so moving,' and 'Her current acting brilliance is precisely because she overcame those hardships.'
As an artist whose powerful artistry transcends borders, Minami embodies strength. Yet off-screen, her curious nature and quirky passions reveal a deeply endearing authenticity. This unique blend of qualities has won her a wave of new fans. Her future endeavors are highly anticipated.
This episode is available for on-demand viewing via TVer.
[Sara Minami Profile]
Born June 11, 2002, in Tokyo. Made her acting debut in the film 'Children of the Sea' (released August 2017). Her first leading role in 'Shino-chan Can't Say Her Name' (released July 2018) earned her multiple film awards, including the Hochi Film Award and the Blue Ribbon Award.
Recent works include NHK Taiga dramas 'The 13 Lords of the Shogun' and 'Brightest Star,' the DMM TV original drama series 'Outlaw's Song,' and leading roles in 'All Greens' (released January 2026) and 'Magamaga Onna' (released February 2026).
Currently, she stars in the film 'Magical Secret Tour,' now in theaters. She also received the 'Rising Star Award' at the 25th New York Asian Film Festival, further solidifying her status as a rising force in international cinema.
Official Agency Profile
https://www.lespros.co.jp/artists/sara-minami/
Official Instagram (@lespros_sara00)
https://www.instagram.com/lespros_sara00/
<Company Overview>
Company: LEPROS ENTERTAINMENT Inc.
Official Website: https://www.lespros.co.jp/
Contact: https://www.lespros.co.jp/contact/
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: エンタメ
- Organizations: NHK / DMM TV