Who is Ken Takakura? Meet Momo Ayase’s Celebrity Obsession and the Eponymous Lead Character in the Hit Shonen Jump Series Dandadan

Fans of Dandadan explore the legacy of Ken Takakura, a beloved Japanese actor, influencing the show’s characters and storyline.

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Ken Takakura Momo Ayase

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With the recent success of the anime adaptation of Dandadan, fans are wondering who Ken Takakura really is. Throughout the first episode, the show’s protagonist constantly showcases her love for the late great actor, who also happens to have the same name as the male lead in the show. Letโ€™s take a deep dive and figure out the legend of Ken Takakura. 

Momo Ayase's obsession with Japanese actor Ken Takakura

Who Is Ken Takakura?

Born on Feb.16, 1931, Japanese actor Ken Takakura is widely regarded to be an icon in the movie industry. His portrayal of brash and stoic characters in movies such as Black Rain and Remnants of Chivalry in the Showa Era. Takakuraโ€™s performances in said movies were memorable and left a deep impression on the Japanese audience. 

Despite having a tough on-screen persona, Takakura was adored by his fans. Kindly referred to as Ken-San, the Japanese actor unfortunately passed away from Lymphoma on Nov. 10, 2014. Dandadan being a prime example, Ken Takakuraโ€™s legacy has never been in question despite his passing a decade ago.  

Young Ken Takakura's charismatic headshot
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Ken Takakuraโ€™s Significance in Dandadan

Momo Ayase, the female lead in Dandadan, is known for her obsession with actor Ken Takakura. During the first scene of Episode 1, she is seen fighting with her ex-boyfriend, who shares a few similar personality traits to the late great actor. Although things donโ€™t work out between the two, Ayase is determined to pursue her goal of finding a man who is akin to the Japanese icon. 

The male protagonist and so-called Occult-kun is a total nerd whose personality strays far away from Ayaseโ€™s liking. However, after getting to know him and realizing his name is also Ken Takakura, Momoโ€™s heart flutters. 

Also known as Okarun, Takakura unknowingly recites a famous dialogue uttered by the famous actor, which forces his female counterpart to pay attention to him. 

Momo Ayase's goal is to find herself a boyfriend like Ken Takakura

Dandadan Episode 2 Release Date

The 2nd episode of Dandadan will stream on Oct. 10, 2024, on Crunchyroll, Netflix and Hulu.


Sunil Krishnan

Sunil is a passionate content writer with experience at Pinkvilla and FirstSportz, where he honed his skills in delivering engaging and dynamic stories. A lifelong anime fan, he draws inspiration from classics like Bleach and Rurouni Kenshin, weaving their themes of heroism and adventure into his work. Sunilโ€™s deep love for anime and storytelling makes his writing as impactful as Ichigoโ€™s Bankai.

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