Yes he was. I'm not sure if it was because of Eguchi Yosuke's injuries.
Haha. Hmm, let's just say that if someone like Fukuda Kyoko can be an actress who is regularly cast as a leading star in dramas, it is fathomable why bland acting by people like Matsushima Nanako can snare awards. It's sad that Japanese dramas have come to this state ... !