Biography

One of the most charismatic members of the pop group Smap, he retains favorite status among teen girls and young women even though he is married. (The youth culture in Japan is such that unattached idols are believed to 'belong' to everyone; once the person is married, or 'taken,' their popularity frequently dwindles.)

Currently, holds the top three spots for most watched Japanese TV drama of all time, with "Hero", "Beautiful Life" and "Good Luck!" ranked respectively. Each of these three dramas scored a viewership rating of over 30% for its pilot. In addition, he also made Japanese TV drama history, when all 11 episodes of "Hero" received over 30% of viewership.

In November 1999, he became the first Asian star to become a spokesperson for Levis Jeans Company

Became the first male star to advertise lipsticks for the Kanebo Testimo II range, in February 1996. The brand's sales figures nearly tripled within a single month, since the launch of the campaign.

Has 2 daughters with ex-singing sensation, Kudo Shizuka, named Kokomi and Mitsuki Kimura.