Veteran Japanese actor Hiroshi Abe, 61, has been in the industry for over 40 years. Known for his distinctive looks and versatile acting, he remains highly popular. He also garnered significant support in Taiwan after personally donating 10 million JPY following the 2018 Hualien earthquake, reciprocating Taiwan's aid during the 311 earthquake.
Today, he appeared on the long-running talk show "Tetsuko's Room," where he discussed the unexpected catalyst that launched his extensive acting career: a casual entry into a magazine model contest.
Abe recalled, "I got into this business when I started modeling at age 20, while I was studying at Chuo University's Faculty of Science and Engineering. My sister saw a 'Non-no Boy Friend Grand Prix' contest by Shueisha, which asked people to 'recommend handsome guys you know.' She asked me, 'Want to give it a shot?' So I sent in a photo—it was actually in the very last week before the deadline."
The 1983 contest offered a car as the first prize. Thinking it would be great to have a car while still in college, he entered—and ended up winning first place.
▼ After "Men's Non-no" was launched, Hiroshi Abe became a staple model for the magazine, even setting a record by appearing on the cover 43 consecutive times.
Abe chuckled, adding, "Just getting the car made me super happy, because everyone around me was saving up from part-time jobs to buy one. I wasn't signed with any agency back then, but the magazine decided they wanted to use this amateur model directly. So I ended up on the cover of 'Men's Non-no' for several issues in a row. That's how I got my start in entertainment."
Abe also emphasized that he originally had no intention of becoming a model: "I really just happened to be there because the magazine was launching." Coupled with his sister's casual recommendation and his own desire for a car, he stumbled into modeling and eventually into the entertainment industry.
After the news broke, netizens were surprised by the simple motivation that led Abe into entertainment. Such an unassuming start paved the way for his 40-plus-year career, perhaps truly a twist of fate that destined him to become a shining star in the industry.
via： livedoor news