Rise of NHK’s Kuwako, TV Asahi’s Morikawa, and Fuji’s Mikami in the Mid-Level Female Announcer Battle

A mid-level female announcer who smoothly progresses programs with outstanding skills not typically seen in younger colleagues. Surviving in the fiercely competitive announcer industry, their strength lies in their unwavering composure even when accidents occur. Amidst many gloomy topics, they are the ones steadfastly supporting each television station.

FRIDAY magazine conducted interviews with TV industry personnel and experts, evaluating talented announcers based on five criteria: announcing skill, glamour, potential, intelligence, and charm. From a group of 12 individuals in their 30s to 40s, the strongest mid-level announcer was determined.

Maho Kuwako (36), who is highly regarded as the ace at NHK, stands out. Upon joining NHK in 2010, she gained experience as a caster on “News 7” and “News Watch 9.”

“She’s already NHK’s top ace. Her announcing skills are more than sufficient, and her interactions with Tamori on ‘Bura Tamori’ were well-received, showing no hesitation. In news programs, her emotionally charged delivery, which doesn’t feel like she’s just reading a script, has also earned high praise. Looking at her past programs, she’s undoubtedly on the fast track for success within NHK.” (Female announcer critic, Daijiro Maruyama)

Another NHK standout, alongside Kuwako, is Mayuko Wakuda (35).

“Wakuda, who is in charge of ‘News 7’ at NHK, was responsible for the live coverage of the Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony in the past. It was a significant role, but she flawlessly handled her duties without any mistakes, solidifying her reputation for announcing skills. With no scandals in her past and considerable popularity among women, there are rumors that when Yumiko Udo (54) retired from NHK, she was offered a position as a future executive as a condition to stay. If Wakuda continues to advance her career, she might become a similar figure.” (Entertainment critic, Takeshi Misugi)

While NHK boasts two aces, Kuwako, who has hosted the “Kohaku Uta Gassen” four times and currently hosts the flagship program “Close-up Gendai,” is leading the fierce competition for the top spot.

Meanwhile, mid-level announcers are also making their presence felt at commercial stations. Yutaka Morikawa (30) is gaining recognition at TV Asahi while Ayaka Hiroaka (33) is on maternity leave.

“Although she isn’t widely recognized, Morikawa has steadily built her career in news reporting since joining the company, supporting TV Asahi’s current lineup. In addition to her announcing skills, her on-screen presence is reminiscent of the former ace, Ayaka Ogawa (39). TV Asahi finds it challenging to retain in-house announcers, and they seek announcers with longevity. Morikawa, who has been in charge of ‘News Station’ and ‘Sunday Station,’ is at the forefront of their expectations.” (TV Asahi insider)

As a new generation of announcers enters their thirties at TV Asahi, TV Tokyo’s flagship announcers are not to be outdone.

“Mariko Ooe (45) is a candidate for future executives. She has a friendly character yet can deliver sharp, composed comments. She’s a versatile type who can handle both economic programs and variety shows. Her popularity among women is high because she doesn’t come across as too calculated on screen. Although there are yearly rumors about her going freelance, the station undoubtedly wants to retain such exceptional talent.” (Previously mentioned, Daijiro Maruyama)