菊川怜

Rei Kikukawa  (born February 28, 1978) is a Japanese actress, model and television presenter. Kikukawa was born in Urawa (now called Saitama), in Saitama Prefecture. She is a graduate of the University of Tokyo where she majored in architecture. She was scouted by an agent while shopping, and eventually came to be represented by Oscar Promotions. Her first major role came in 2002 when she was chosen to co-host the Sunday night NTV show "Bankisha." Despite her collegiate pedigree, her lack of knowledge on a variety of subjects was exposed on a variety/quiz show, and she rarely offers input on the issues on Bankisha. Although promoted as an "intelligent idol", a bra commercial in 2007 may indicate a move towards classification as an "obaka-aidoru" or "dumb idol" - entertainers known for their good looks and lack of intelligence.