Fan CastingThe Last Note: The Shinji Maki Story

The Last Note: The Shinji Maki Story is an evocative and poignant miniseries that takes us into the life of Shinji Maki, Japan's beloved mandan comedian, and ukulele-playing entertainer, known for his quick wit and charming, self-deprecating humor. Set against the backdrop of Japan’s post-war transformation and cultural evolution, this miniseries paints a vivid picture of Maki’s journey, from his rise in the bustling entertainment scene of Tokyo in the 1950s to his status as a household name. The series traces Maki’s early years, navigating poverty, and seeking solace and joy in music and comedy as a way to cope with personal struggles. Through his beloved ukulele and signature comedic style, he became a symbol of resilience and humor during hardship. We see him perform his biting, self-aware routines, his comedic riffs that often held a mirror up to society, and witness the highs and lows of his career, from moments of triumph to periods of decline as modern Japanese entertainment moved away from traditional mandan comedy.