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| Kohaku Shida Goes Viral After Gozyuger Casting |
Kohaku Shida’s name is absolutely everywhere right now — and not just because she’s officially stepping in as Sumino Ichikawa / Gozyu Unicorn in No.1 Sentai Gozyuger.
With the show confirming she will take over the role starting Episode 40 on 30 November, fans have started digging into everything from her career leap to her rumoured boyfriend history.
Kohaku Shida Officially Replaces Maya Imamori in Gozyuger
TV Asahi and the series’ official website announced that Kohaku Shida (21) will step in as the new Sumino Ichikawa / Gozyu Unicorn beginning Episode 40.
You’ll recognise Shida Kohaku instantly — she was the breakout heroine Haruka Kitō / Oni Sister in Avatarō Sentai Donbrothers (2022–23).
Despite being the youngest in that cast, she became a fan favourite thanks to her expressive acting and sharp comedic timing.
The change comes after the departure of Maya Imamori (19) earlier this month. Episode 37 aired with all her scenes removed, and Episode 38’s preview continued without her presence.
Why the Recast Made Headlines
The production team edited out Imamori from recent episodes, replaced her single line with voice actor Ayaka Maekawa, and even updated the opening sequence to remove previous footage.
With such a swift transition, all eyes immediately landed on Kohaku Shida — and fans welcomed her with open arms.
Online comments ranged from “Kohaku-chan fits the role perfectly!” to “Can we finally get a proper Gozyu Unicorn driving scene?”
Who Is Sumino Ichikawa / Gozyu Unicorn?
Sumino is a fan-loved character in the Gozyuger line-up:
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Cool-headed but charming when needed
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Former police academy student
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Fell out with colleagues after a certain incident
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Now works as a high-class freelance detective
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Known in specific circles for solving cases others won’t touch
It’s the kind of role that suits Shida’s energy — sharp, expressive, and slightly mischievous when the script needs it.
Kohaku Shida’s Recent Dating History — What Fans Are Talking About
While Shida’s casting is the biggest official news, social media is buzzing with a different question:
Who is Kohaku Shida dating?
Let’s break down the rumours circulating online.
Rumour #1: Nishimura Takuya (Late 2024)
The strongest and most persistent rumour links Shida to Nishimura Takuya, her co-star from Toshishita Kareshi Season 2.
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The pair were reportedly spotted entering the same hotel for two nights in a row in 2024.
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Neither side released a statement denying or clarifying the situation.
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Fans noted their natural chemistry both on-screen and off, which fuelled the speculation further.
Nothing has been confirmed to this day — but out of all the rumours, this one remains the most talked-about.
Rumour #2: Takahashi Fumiya (Earlier Rumours)
Before the Nishimura speculation, Shida was also rumoured to be dating Takahashi Fumiya after fans noticed strong off-screen chemistry from behind-the-scenes clips.
However:
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Shida herself publicly denied this rumour.
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No evidence ever surfaced beyond fan-made assumptions.
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The story eventually faded, but still pops up occasionally in fan conversations.
Why Shida’s Name Is Trending Right Now
Between:
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Her surprise entry into Gozyuger,
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The massive recast discussion,
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Fans celebrating her return to the Super Sentai world, and
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Ongoing curiosity about her dating life,
Kohaku Shida has become one of the most talked-about young actresses in Japan this month.
Episode 40 — her first episode as Gozyu Unicorn — airs 30 November, and fans are already gearing up to welcome her back to the Sentai spotlight.
Source: Oricon

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