Fangirl Friday: Sato Takeru

I grew up with Sunday morning Tokusatsu. That’s where it all began.

He was Nogami Ryotaro in Kamen Rider Den-O, a weak kid with terrible luck. Most actors stick to one role, but Takeru played seven. He shifted his voice, posture, and even his eyes depending on which Imagin was in charge. Even back then, I knew he was different.

I’m not usually into Japanese actors. He’s always been the only exception.

When they cast him as Himura Kenshin, I held my breath. Rurouni Kenshin is my favorite manga of all time.. I wasn’t ready for disappointment. But Takeru? He didn’t just play Kenshin; he became him.

He did his own stunts. No wires. No doubles. Just him, running sideways on a wall with perfect precision. There’s one moment before a fight when he lowers his chin and looks up through his bangs. The weight in his eyes is exactly how I imagined Kenshin for years.

There’s a strange balance in him. Beautiful and delicate, yet heavy and intense. Mysterious. And he loves cats. Somehow, knowing that makes all his intensity feel warmer, more human. His upcoming movie, If Cats Disappeared from the World, is bound to break hearts.. and mine is definitely not ready.

I’ve been crushing on him for years. Some things never change, and I wouldn’t want them to.