8-year-old Ayaka Ito has been chosen to play the role of Maruko in the upcoming drama/variety series, "Marumaru Chibi Maruko-chan." She was selected in an audition of more than 800 applicants. Ei Morisako, who played Maruko in the two drama specials that have been made so far, served as a special judge for the audition.

Ito has experience in television commercials and in fashion magazines, but this is her first major acting role.

The remaining cast members for the show have also been announced. Only Fuyuki Moto and Shinsuke Kasai will continue in their roles from the drama specials. Contrary to previous reports, Yoshie Ichige will not be returning as Maruko's grandmother, and will be replaced by Yoshiko Miyazaki. Noriko Sakai and Masakazu Mimura will play Maruko's parents, and Maaya Murasaki will play her sister.

The show begins on April 19, and will air at 7:00pm on Thursdays on Fuji TV.