Why does Momo like Ken Takakura is a question many fans ask while watching or reading Dandadan. Momo Ayase’s feelings toward Ken Takakura, also known as Okarun, are not random or purely comedic. Her attraction is rooted in a long held admiration for a specific ideal of masculinity, shaped by her celebrity crush on the late Japanese actor Ken Takakura. Over time, Momo realizes that Okarun embodies the very qualities she once only admired from afar.
What begins as embarrassment and confusion slowly develops into genuine affection, a progression that readers on HariManga often note as one of the most emotionally grounded moments in the story. Okarun’s personality, actions, and even his name blur the line between fantasy and reality for Momo, turning an idealized crush into something real. This emotional shift adds depth to their relationship and highlights one of the series’ most subtle and well written character arcs.
The Influence of Momo’s Celebrity Crush
Momo’s feelings originate from her admiration for Ken Takakura, a legendary actor known for portraying stoic, honorable characters. To Momo, he represents quiet strength, emotional restraint, and a strong moral code. These traits formed her ideal image of what a man should be like, especially after being disappointed by her ex boyfriend, who failed to meet those expectations.
This idealized version of masculinity is deeply personal for Momo. It is not about fame or appearance, but about character and integrity. She longs for someone dependable, calm under pressure, and respectful, qualities she associates strongly with the actor’s screen presence.
Okarun’s Personality and Shared Traits
Ken Takakura, known by fans as Okarun, unexpectedly mirrors many of the traits Momo admires. Despite his awkward and nerdy first impression, he consistently shows bravery, politeness, and genuine concern for Momo’s safety. He does not boast or seek attention, instead expressing care through actions rather than words.
This quiet reliability aligns closely with Momo’s ideal. Okarun protects her, respects her boundaries, and stands firm when it matters most. Over time, Momo begins to notice that the qualities she admired in her celebrity crush exist in front of her in a much more authentic form.
The Power of the Name Coincidence
One of the biggest emotional triggers for Momo is the revelation that Okarun’s real name is Ken Takakura. This coincidence deeply unsettles her, as it symbolically connects her fantasy to reality. Hearing the name forces her to confront feelings she initially tries to deny or rationalize.
The name is not just a joke or gimmick within the story. It represents the collapse of Momo’s emotional distance between an unreachable idol and a real person who genuinely cares for her. This realization makes her flustered because it challenges her original understanding of what she truly wants.
The Famous Line and Emotional Realization
The turning point comes when Okarun uses the famous line associated with the actor, “I’m an awkward fellow.” Hearing those words from him is deeply impactful for Momo. In that moment, she recognizes that Okarun is not an imitation of her idol, but a living embodiment of the values she admired.
This scene crystallizes her feelings. Okarun becomes the “real” Ken Takakura in her eyes, not because of the name alone, but because of how naturally he represents honor, humility, and sincerity. The line acts as an emotional bridge between Momo’s past ideal and her present reality.
Related: Who is Ken Takakura in Dandadan?
The Deeper Meaning Behind Momo’s Crush
Momo’s attraction is not superficial or purely romantic. It reflects her desire for genuine character and emotional security. Okarun represents a subversion of the typical shonen protagonist, as he is neither loud nor flashy. Instead, he shows care through consistency, courage, and quiet devotion.
This dynamic adds emotional maturity to Dandadan’s storytelling. Momo’s feelings highlight the idea that true strength does not always come from confidence or bravado. In Okarun, she finds someone who aligns with her values in a way that feels real and earned.
Conclusion
So, why does Momo like Ken Takakura in Dandadan? Because he embodies the stoic strength, honor, and quiet kindness she has always admired. What starts as a celebrity inspired ideal gradually transforms into genuine affection for someone who lives those values every day. Okarun is not just a reflection of her fantasy, but the realization of it, making their relationship one of the most emotionally grounded elements in the series.
FAQs
1. Why is Momo obsessed with the name Ken Takakura?
Because it belongs to both her celebrity idol and Okarun, symbolizing the connection between her ideal and reality.
2. Is Momo’s crush on Okarun only because of the actor reference?
No, the reference triggers her feelings, but her attraction grows because of Okarun’s actions and character.
3. Does Okarun know why Momo reacts so strongly to his name?
At first, he does not fully understand, which adds to the humor and emotional tension in their relationship.
