: Beyond acting, she continued to build her presence as a recording artist and a popular YouTuber. Clarification on "Saejima" vs. "Makimura"
Observant fans noted that in 2021, Saejima appeared less frequently in the "Big 3" gravure magazines ( Weekly Playboy , Young Animal , Weekly Young Jump ). Instead, she pivoted to niche publications focused on "30-something beauty" and lifestyle. This move signaled a conscious rebranding: moving from "idol" to "woman." kaori saejima 2021
Saejima's breakthrough role came in 2007 with the Japanese television drama "Ginmakuban Sushi Ōji: New York e Iku," where she showcased her exceptional acting skills and charisma. This performance earned her widespread recognition, and she went on to appear in numerous notable projects, including films like "Tetsudō Shōjo" (2010) and "Bōsatsu Tetsudō" (2011). : Beyond acting, she continued to build her