Current ranking of top-earning actresses

Nikkan Gendai has released a ranking of the top-earning actresses in Japan. The list covers the recent estimated earning of an actress for one episode of a drama and the potential viewer ratings she could garner. Matsushima Nanako topped the list with 2.5 million yen per episode (US$31700, SGD$40000). With plans to participate in only 2 dramas for Nippon TV next year, there are rumours that she might even command 4 million yen per episode.

Top-earning actresses
Name/Estimated fee per episode(円)/Potential viewership ratings(%)

 1. Matsushima Nanako 2.5 million (US$31700) 12.4%

 2. Ayase Haruka 2.2 million (US$28000) 12.1%

 3. Ueto Aya 2 million (US$25400) 11.9%

 4. Nagasawa Masami 2 million 9.7%

 5. Amami Yuki 2 million 8.9%

Mizobata Junpei denies FRIDAY article

 ... that he was stealing glances at Nagasawa Masami's legs on the first day of filming for TV Asahi's 'Toshi Densetsu no Onna'. "I wasn't peeking from the corner of my eyes, I was openly looking at them straight on," he stressed. To which Nagasawa replied,"Junpei-kun always compliments me. Like it's pretty the way you show off your legs, and he gives me advice too. He's so kind."

The bantering took place at the press conference on 11th April for their new drama that will start airing on 13th April. Takuma Takayuki, Takenaka Naoto and Hirayama Hiroyuki also attended the event at Kanda Shrine.