BS Asahi officially announced the live-action adaptation of Hiromasa Okushima’s manga Katei Kyōshi no Kishi Knight Desu (I’m Your Private Tutor, Kishi Knight). The drama premieres on January 5, 2026, airing on BS Asahi, CBC, RKB, HBC, and tvk. It will also stream exclusively on Lemino the same day.
The story stars Rei Sawamura from ONE N’ ONLY as Kishi Knight, a graceful private tutor, and Kouki Tanaka from SUPER★DRAGON as Toru Takasugi, a troubled high school student. Their unexpected meeting changes both their lives. Toru begins to mature as Kishi guides him with patience, humor, and warmth.
The show, directed by Naho Kamimura, Nao Nomura, and Jiro Nagae, blends youth comedy with gentle BL undertones. With a script by Ayumi Shimo and Naho Kamimura, it promises laughter, growth, and emotional depth.
A Prince-Like Tutor and a Stubborn Student
In I’m Your Private Tutor, Kishi Knight, Toru’s mother hires a tutor to help her son improve his grades. However, she never expects someone like Kishi Knight — a man so elegant and kind he could pass for a prince. At first, Toru resists his lessons. Gradually, though, Kishi’s sincerity softens him. Their funny, awkward study sessions turn into moments of trust and friendship. As a result, both characters grow in ways they never imagined.
Cast and Crew Share Their Thoughts
Rei Sawamura shared his excitement about playing Kishi Knight. He said the story’s humor and warmth made filming a joy and hopes viewers feel the same while watching.
First of all, I’m very happy to be appearing in this production! I really love the world of this youth comedy created by Okushima-sensei, and when I read the original work, I was excited to see how I could portray the innocent feeling that comes from being well-bred! Tanaka-kun, who plays Tohru, and I have been friends for a long time as artists, and we both love ramen in our private lives and often go out together, so the atmosphere on set was friendly and I was able to enjoy filming with the support of many staff members and co-stars! I hope that even when something bad happens, watching this drama will make you laugh and cheer you up! I think many people will also be moved by Kishi Knight’s knowledgeable advice! Please be sure to watch it!!
Meanwhile, Kouki Tanaka described Toru as a rebellious but lonely teen who learns to open up through his tutor’s guidance. He encouraged viewers to enjoy the comedy and friendship without taking it too seriously.
“I’m Kishi Knight, Your Private Tutor” was a much better comedy than I expected, so I was surprised when I read the original! So when I read the script, I was excited to imagine what kind of mood I’d have in front of the camera, but at the same time, I was a little nervous about whether I’d be able to act it out, but I’m looking forward to it. I’ve been in contact with Rei-kun as part of EBiDAN, and we’ve even hung out together in private, so it feels a little strange to be acting together.
During filming, we joke around and talk seriously about acting, and we get along well and work hard! There’s a lot I want to share, like how Tohru’s attitude and feelings towards studying change, but I hope you’ll just enjoy watching without thinking too hard about it. Please
tune in
Author Hiromasa Okushima also celebrated the adaptation. He said he felt thrilled to see his characters come to life and thanked the cast and crew for capturing the manga’s heart.
In addition, director Naho Uemura praised the chemistry between Sawamura and Tanaka. According to her, their performances made every scene feel alive and natural.
Behind the Scenes
Hiromasa Okushima’s works often balance humor with emotion. His previous manga, Baban Baban Ban Vampire, also inspired both an anime and a film earlier this year. Because of his signature storytelling style, this new live-action adaptation is already gaining attention.
The production committee described Kishi Knight as a “new-sensation romantic youth comedy.” The show mixes slapstick humor, emotional growth, and a subtle BL flavor that fans will instantly recognize. Furthermore, its focus on self-discovery and human connection makes it relatable to a broad audience.
Broadcast Details
Premiere Date: January 5, 2026
Channels: BS Asahi, CBC, RKB, HBC, tvk
Streaming: Lemino (same-day release)
Cast: Rei Sawamura, Kouki Tanaka
Directors: Naho Kamimura, Nao Nomura, Jiro Nagae
Screenplay: Ayumi Shimo, Naho Kamimura
Original Manga: Hiromasa Okushima (Akita Shoten’s Shonen Champion Comics Extra)
With its light tone, strong chemistry, and heartfelt message, I’m Your Private Tutor, Kishi Knight stands out as one of 2026’s most charming BL-inspired dramas.
