Fans Discover Japanese Politician Was Samus in a Metroid Commercial

Imagine discovering that a politician once cosplayed as Samus, the protagonist of Metroid, for a commercial years ago. Fans have discovered that Chisato Morishita, who is currently Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister of the Environment, posed as Samus Aran.

Fans Discover Japanese Politician Was Samus in a Metroid Commercial

The recent discovery involving Chisato Morishita quickly went viral on social media. Currently serving as Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister of the Environment, she once had a very different past in the entertainment industry.

Before entering politics, Morishita worked as a model, actress, and TV personality. It was during this time that she appeared in a live-action commercial for Metroid: Zero Mission on the Game Boy Advance, portraying none other than Samus Aran.

In the game’s promotional campaign, produced by Nintendo, the actress appeared wearing the iconic Zero Suit. The commercial featured sci-fi-inspired scenes, with Morishita crawling through futuristic vents, battling alien creatures, and taking on the role of the famous space bounty hunter.

Although the ad aired around the time of the game’s release, many fans only realized the connection years later. With the rediscovery of the video, the internet reacted with surprise upon noticing that a current Japanese government figure was once tied to one of the most iconic video game franchises.

Below is the commercial:

Comments on social media highlighted how unexpected this transition was, with some users joking that this is the closest thing we’ve ever had to a live-action Metroid. In addition to the commercial, Morishita also participated in promotional activities for the game, including content on the official website and interactions with fans.

It kind of warms the heart to know that there may be potential otakus holding positions in Japanese politics, doesn’t it?