TV-Series
Description
Riku Nanase is an eighteen-year-old male with red hair styled with a longer lock on the left side, mirroring his twin brother Tenn's hairstyle, and red eyes. He stands at 173 centimeters tall. His childhood featured frequent hospitalizations due to a respiratory illness, later specified as asthma, limiting peer interaction and fostering an avid reading habit. Tenn regularly performed for him during these hospital stays to lift his spirits. At thirteen, financial hardship stemming from their parents' bankrupt club and Riku's medical expenses led Tenn to leave the family and join Takamasa Kujo's agency, severing official ties. Riku remained unaware of the full circumstances behind Tenn's departure for some time.

Motivated to understand the idol world that compelled Tenn to leave, Riku joined the group IDOLiSH7 after being scouted by Otoharu Takanashi. Otoharu offered him a business card upon hearing him sing at a karaoke session with friends. Riku serves as the center of IDOLiSH7, recognized for his exceptional singing voice, considered the group's strongest asset. Despite his illness, he pursued idol activities with intense determination, frequently overexerting himself and concealing his condition to avoid burdening others or risking expulsion. This behavior triggered multiple health crises. Fellow member Iori Izumi independently deduced Riku's asthma and became a primary support figure, though Riku initially requested secrecy. Manager Tsumugi Takanashi and other members eventually learned of his condition and accommodated it rather than removing him.

Personality-wise, Riku exhibits energetic enthusiasm and a direct, often unfiltered communication style that can unintentionally offend. He expresses emotions openly, including frustration, though he typically returns quickly to a positive demeanor. His hospital upbringing resulted in social naivete, yet he possesses a strong desire to spread happiness through his performances. He is easily flustered by compliments and prone to anxiety, which can trigger his asthma. His dedication sometimes manifests as recklessness regarding his health. A notable trait is his influence over audiences; termed a "monster" by Takamasa Kujo, he can sway crowd emotions through raw displays of feeling like crying on stage. This ability made him a frequent choice for commercial work.

Relationships define significant aspects of his development. His bond with Tenn evolved from idolization to rivalry and eventual mutual respect as both pursued idol careers, though their interactions remained complex and occasionally antagonistic. Within IDOLiSH7, his closest connection is with Iori Izumi. Their dynamic involves frequent arguments balanced by deep mutual trust and support, with fans often pairing them as a popular duo. Iori frequently describes Riku as "cute" and acts protectively, particularly regarding his health. Riku maintains positive relationships with all group members, who collectively worry about and accommodate his limitations. He also harbors admiration for the rival group TRIGGER, which includes Tenn, often watching their performances repeatedly and pausing specifically on Tenn's scenes.

Trivia includes his low alcohol tolerance, leading to intoxication from minimal alcohol or even non-alcoholic beverages like chanmery. He has a habit of sitting with knees hugged to his chest. He is skilled at photography but takes embarrassing photos of group members. Historically, chocolate was restricted in his household due to his illness, causing him distress as a child. He spent many New Years in hospitals.