That long-running program loved by Johnny’s fans has finally come to an end!　The office’s “determination to nurture young talent” is behind the show’s demise.

A long-running program that has been popular as a gateway to success for Johnny’s Jr. is finally coming to an end.

The variety show “Naked Boy” (TV Asahi) began broadcasting in April 2001. Despite a hiatus, the program has been loved as a valuable terrestrial program for Johnny’s Jr. and his friends for many years. The long-established program will finally come to an end at the end of March.

In October 2002, the program was moved to the evening slot. The program has been on the air for more than 12 years, changing its slot every year. The content changes from season to season, but is mainly variety, such as gourmet food locations and battles between groups. In the past, many talents such as KAT-TUN, NEWS, and Kis-My-Ft2 have honed their skills,” said the entertainment desk of a sports newspaper.

The final episode of the show has already been recorded. What is behind the end of a show that was well supported by fans? A source in the entertainment industry says, “It is largely due to the review of production costs caused by the COVID-19 crisis,” but he also says that Johnny’s office is also behind the decision.

Currently, two groups, ‘HiHi Jets’ and ‘Bishonen,’ are on the show, but these two groups are also in charge of the show. However, these two groups have also been in charge of the program for almost three and a half years. I think the office is aiming to push out the next new talent. They have been in discussions with TV Asahi for that purpose.”

Although “Naked Boy” itself will be terminated, there are plans for a show featuring Japanese talents to succeed it.

The MC is also scheduled to be changed from the current “Taka & Toshi” and “Baikingu’s” Kotoge-san (Eiji, 46). One of the new MCs will be Mr. Shibata (Eiji, 47) of “Untouchable”.

The series of moves shows the seriousness of the Johnny’s office. The head of Johnny’s Island, which is in charge of training, has also been replaced by Mr. Takizawa (Hideaki, 40) to Mr. Inohara (Yoshihiko, 46). I can sense the strong determination of the office to nurture new talents by themselves in the production of new programs.

When this magazine sent a letter of inquiry to TV Asahi regarding the termination of “Naked Boy,” the following response was received by the deadline.

We do not have any answers regarding future programming.

The Johnny’s s office is focusing its efforts on new programs to nurture young talent. What will be the fate of the winning move? ……