Erika Toda once thought about turning down Hell’s Fortune Teller, until one line from the producer convinced her
Good thing she ended up taking the role!
Netflix’s Japanese drama “Hell’s Fortune Teller” has been a huge hit since its release, with Erika Toda delivering a pitch-perfect portrayal of legendary astrologer Kazuko Hosoki that has earned praise even from Hosoki’s own family. From Misa Amane in 2006’s “Death Note” to “Code Blue,” “SPEC,” and this new 2026 series, Toda studied Hosoki’s mannerisms closely for the role, even reproducing her private habit of touching the corner of her mouth. Her masterful performance not only overcame the challenge of her inability to gain weight, it also earned praise in an X post from Hosoki Kaori, Kazuko Hosoki’s successor.
- Related reading: Erika Toda’s new Netflix drama “Hell’s Fortune Teller” is now streaming, tracing the life of a legendary fortune-teller
Erika Toda almost turned down the role?
Taking on “Hell’s Fortune Teller” was a real internal struggle for Erika Toda. In a recent interview, she revealed that when she first received the offer, she considered declining because “our bone structures are too different” and “gaining weight would be difficult.” One comment from the producer changed her mind completely: “I can hear your voice saying that key line: ‘You’re going to hell.’” The production team emphasized that the focus was on portraying Hosoki’s soul, rather than simply imitating her appearance, which gave Toda the courage to accept.
Most surprising of all, beyond repeatedly watching clips from Hosoki’s shows, Toda also incorporated Hosoki’s subtle habit of touching the corner of her mouth while thinking. Even Hosoki’s adopted daughter and successor, Hosoki Kaori, expressed amazement in an X post: “Although she lacks some of that presence physically, she recreated little gestures that never appeared on TV. I was surprised, thinking, ‘How did she even know about that habit?’”
What other classic Japanese dramas starring Erika Toda are worth watching?
If you loved Erika Toda’s acting in “Hell’s Fortune Teller,” these classic works of hers are not to be missed.
1. 2006 “Death Note”
Her spot-on portrayal of Misa Amane’s signature twin-tail look remains a classic first-love image for countless people.
2. 2008 “Code Blue”
As the straightforward Mihoko Hiyama, she portrays a medical professional who is strong yet gentle.
3. 2010 “SPEC”
Her portrayal of Saya Toma, an eccentric, intelligent genius, completely shattered her idol image.
4. 2018 “We Love: The Series About a Man Who Forgot Me”
This moving pure-love drama has brought countless viewers to tears with its nuanced emotional expression.
Erika Toda is truly incredible. Rather than simply whitewashing its lead, the script honestly lays bare Kazuko Hosoki’s desire for fame and fortune, along with the controversial lengths she went to get them. Instead of relying solely on gaining weight to imitate Hosoki, Toda uses a cold gaze and powerful presence to embody the character’s soul, making for a deeply satisfying watch. If you haven’t decided what to watch this weekend, this one won’t disappoint.
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