Oshi No Ko: Season 1, Episode 16 - The Curtain Rises (2024)

The confrontation between Akane and Kana is triggered when Kana acquires an old interview in which Akane praises Kana as one of her inspirations. Instead of feeling flattered, Kana mocks Akane cruelly in front of others, revealing her apprehensible and malicious nature. This behavior is unprovoked by Akane and stems from Kana's own feelings of rivalry and resentment, partly due to constant comparisons between the two actresses.

Episode 16 focuses heavily on the rising tensions among the cast members, showcasing verbal abuse and public humiliation behind their seemingly pleasant facades. The episode explores the darker sides of the characters, culminating in the intense confrontation between Akane and Kana. These personal conflicts add a layer of drama to the preparations for the play's opening night, setting the stage for more unexpected developments.

In Episode 16, Aqua is shown to be deeply involved in the play's production and the personal dynamics of the cast. While he initially aims to protect Akane from his own dark past, he underestimates the complexities and darkness within Akane herself. His presence adds tension and depth to the unfolding drama, especially as the episode highlights the challenges faced by young actors in the entertainment industry.