Matsuda Seiko joins the “Bones” cast

Seiko, Emily and David at the set of Bones

The American television series scene is definitely something to brag about. Networks like ABC, FOXand CW keep churning quality series which have the production quality that contends with cinematic productions.

Most television series seek to keep their shows “authentic” and instil new blood in their cast, in order to retain the viewers’ attention and expand their fan-base. Although these shows’ biggest market is in the states, DVD releases and international syndications are definitely something that many producers pride in.

Consequently several producers have been eyeing the Japanese market and recently this has been an interesting development. The highly popular drama, “Lost” has premiered their final season with the addition of the Japanese superstar Hiroyuki Sanada, who is set to be a significant recurring role. On a similar vein, the Stardust actress, Takeuchi Yuko obtained an acting role in “Flash Forward”. And there is a new addition to the American drama series from Japan.

The well known singer and actress Seiko Matsuda (47) needs no introduction to the majority of the J-Pop fan-base. She is well known for being a legend and has been dubbed as the “eternal idol” in Japan and the “Japanese Madonna” in America. And she has yet another gig to add to her resume. She has landed a role on the popular American drama series “Bones”. She is set to play the part of a Japanese journalist in the 5th season, which is currently airing on Fox network. Seiko’s scenes are scheduled to start airing in April.

In retrospect, although this is a great opportunity for Matsuda, this was probably also done to expand their fan-base to the Japanese market. The 4th season box set is set to go on sale on the 19th March and having a prominent Japanese figure chosen to act in “Bones” is definitely set to attract the Japan’s attention, to the point of boosting its’ popularity.

For those who are not familiar with “Bones”, it is a crime drama television series which is based on the books written by the illustrious writer and forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs. Though the drama series has steered away from the books, Kathy Reichs is one of those rare writers who are happy with the development of their literary work on the screen. In fact, she is one of the producers of the show and has also appeared as a cameo role on the show.

The episodes are typically based on an FBI case file, in which the victims’ bodies are in such an advanced stage of decomposition to the point that they require the expertise of forensic anthropologists and other forensic scientists. The main protagonists are FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz, 40) and the forensic anthropologist Dr Temperance Brennan (Emily Deschanel, 33).

This show has gradually garnered a strong fanbase and is currently one of the most popular American dramas. Additionally “Bones” is known for highlighting different cultures, communities and relatively obscure sub-cultures. “Bones” has also explored the world of gaming, science fictions, comic books, black metal bands and ImagiCon (a parody of the comic book convention Comic-Con).

Seiko and Emily finishing off a shooting session at Dr Temperance Brennan's office.

Seiko commented to the media; “I really like watching drama series. When my casting was decided, I was surprised, and very happy. She was especially excited since she loves working in America, with a completely different language and culture. Once she got the offer, she immediately accepted, without even reading the script. Matsuda was preparing for her role in “Bones”, at the end of 2009, while she was concurrently touring in Japan. In early January, she was flown to the states for two weeks of filming.

The producers mentioned that they were looking for a Japanese actress who had polished acting skills, proficiency in English and who would be recognised to her role. Matsuda fit the bill perfectly. In 1990 she made her recording debut in the states and had a modest success in the charts. Additionally she also landed some small roles in Hollywood, such as the 1998 blockbuster “Armageddon”.

According the media, the “Bones” crew were really impressed at her level of professionalism. Emily Deschanel praised Matsuda claiming she was “very sweet, with a lovely disposition and a professional attitude“. Although they were aware she was fluent, no one expected her to have such a good level of English, especially with forensic terms. Matsuda admits that she read the script several times, in order to memorise it.

“I tried not to be a bother for them. You fully have to understand your partner’s words and be able to answer properly.”

Unfortunately Seiko won’t be a regular addition to the cast, but Matsuda commented that she is more than willing to return if she is requested back to “Bones”.

“I really would love to play that role again.”

Hopefully Seiko will return to the cast of “Bones”, since I’m quite sure she’ll be a very interesting addition to this successful show. And I’m certainly hoping we’ll get more Japanese starring to American dramas. It would definitely be an interesting addition to an already exciting industry.