TV-Series
Description
Atsuya Baba, 34, forms one half of the manzai comedy duo Homosapiens alongside partner Kensuke Shibagaki. As the duo's "tsukkomi" or straight man, Baba delivers deadpan reactions to Shibagaki's comedic antics. His personality blends optimism, generosity, mild manners, and kindness, with his honest nature widely regarded as his greatest asset and a key element of his public appeal.
The duo's partnership originated from attending the same high school. Despite their long collaboration, Baba harbors self-doubt about his comedic abilities, believing Shibagaki to be the genuinely funny member. He states he would willingly step aside if his presence hindered Shibagaki's career. Their comedy segments air on "Japan Broadcasting," featuring a recurring segment, "What do I eat for lunch?," where Baba spontaneously shares meals with strangers in the city.
Beyond comedy, Baba enjoys playing the mobile game "Zooden," raising virtual animals to level up his account. He uses his real surname as his in-game handle, "Homosapi Baba," hoping it might connect him with fans—a habit Shibagaki views as a distraction from joke-writing.
Baba's career shifts when increased solo job offers and recognition create tension and lead to a temporary estrangement from Shibagaki, reflecting the impact of changing circumstances on their relationship. They later reconcile by reaffirming their shared goals upon entering show business.
A significant subplot involves his unexpected friendship with Rui Nikaido, lead singer of the idol group Mystery Kiss. After a chance train encounter where Nikaido questions potential frustration over hosting shows with lesser-known idols while younger comedians rise, Baba admits initial frustration but explains his evolved perspective: success became less crucial, and he now finds joy in his peers' achievements. This outlook, which Nikaido finds foreign yet liberating, leads them to exchange contact information and form a bond.
Following Nikaido's discovery of Yuki Mitsuya's corpse, Baba provides her emotional support during the turmoil. Nikaido confides in him but withholds the full truth about Sakura Wadagaki impersonating Mitsuya, leaving Baba unaware of these details while offering assistance.
It is later revealed that Baba, like all characters perceived as animals, is human. This visual distortion stems from protagonist Hiroshi Odokawa's visual agnosia, a psychological condition caused by childhood trauma, leading him to perceive people as anthropomorphic animals.
The duo's partnership originated from attending the same high school. Despite their long collaboration, Baba harbors self-doubt about his comedic abilities, believing Shibagaki to be the genuinely funny member. He states he would willingly step aside if his presence hindered Shibagaki's career. Their comedy segments air on "Japan Broadcasting," featuring a recurring segment, "What do I eat for lunch?," where Baba spontaneously shares meals with strangers in the city.
Beyond comedy, Baba enjoys playing the mobile game "Zooden," raising virtual animals to level up his account. He uses his real surname as his in-game handle, "Homosapi Baba," hoping it might connect him with fans—a habit Shibagaki views as a distraction from joke-writing.
Baba's career shifts when increased solo job offers and recognition create tension and lead to a temporary estrangement from Shibagaki, reflecting the impact of changing circumstances on their relationship. They later reconcile by reaffirming their shared goals upon entering show business.
A significant subplot involves his unexpected friendship with Rui Nikaido, lead singer of the idol group Mystery Kiss. After a chance train encounter where Nikaido questions potential frustration over hosting shows with lesser-known idols while younger comedians rise, Baba admits initial frustration but explains his evolved perspective: success became less crucial, and he now finds joy in his peers' achievements. This outlook, which Nikaido finds foreign yet liberating, leads them to exchange contact information and form a bond.
Following Nikaido's discovery of Yuki Mitsuya's corpse, Baba provides her emotional support during the turmoil. Nikaido confides in him but withholds the full truth about Sakura Wadagaki impersonating Mitsuya, leaving Baba unaware of these details while offering assistance.
It is later revealed that Baba, like all characters perceived as animals, is human. This visual distortion stems from protagonist Hiroshi Odokawa's visual agnosia, a psychological condition caused by childhood trauma, leading him to perceive people as anthropomorphic animals.