Mao Inoue

Mao Inoue began her career as a child actress at 5 when encouraged by her mom and receiving a fan letter after her first year in show business. She hasn't stopped since. She was born in Yokohama, just west of Tokyo, in 1987. She gained national attention on Kids War from 1999 to 2003. She was the lead in Hana Yori Dango with J-pop band Arashi's members, 2 years following the end of Kids War. She was awarded Best Actress by the TV Drama Academy. Rumors of romance and even marriage with Arashi member Jun Matsumoto soon spread, keeping fans tingled for years. It was reported that they were dating, but their talent agencies were hindering an official union. Others speculated that these are mere publicity stunts. She starred in the series' second season & also made the jump into feature films with Check It Out, Yo! She branched out into singing and was soon called 'The Ten Billion Yen Actress' for her films' earning prowess. Instead of taking on acting further full-time, she took time off in 2005 to attend Meiji University & graduated in 2009, majoring in theater & literature. Her role in 2011's Youkame No Semi (Rebirth) was another milestone for her, garnering her Best Starring Actress Award at the 35th Japan Film Academy Awards. She was asked to lead the Red team in the annual New Year's Eve Singing Contest Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2011. She played a dramatic underdog in 2014's The Snow White Murder Case alongside actress and model Nanao.