Masatoshi Hamada Makes Surprise Appearance in Tokyo Studio, “Waiting for My Partner!” Unshakeable Belief on Display
The energetic superstar wants to retire by performing comic monologues together in the end, but the people around him do not agree. ......
The senior member, waiting for their partner’s return, continues to struggle alone.
In early March, Masatoshi Hamada (60) of “Downtown” appeared at a studio in Tokyo in his familiar American casual fashion.
“When the car carrying Mr. Hamada arrived at the entrance, about 10 staff members came out to greet him. Mr. Hamada didn’t seem tense at all, He entered the studio while chatting with them.” (Witness)
It’s been about two months since Hitoshi Matsumoto (60) went on hiatus. Left alone, Hamada seems to be eagerly awaiting his partner’s return.
“Mr. Hamada has long expressed his desire to do comedy with my partner one last time before retiring to those around him. He looked worn out when Mr. Matsumoto went on hiatus, but lately, he’s been full of energy. Since Mr. Matsumoto also seems eager to return to the entertainment industry, Mr. Hamada probably intends to continue hosting his own show.” (Variety show director)
However, another TV station insider reveals a different perspective from Hamada’s.
“As a station, our real desire is to bring about a generational change. Positions once held by Mr. Matsumoto, such as on shows like ‘Sake no Tsumami ni Naru Hanashi’ (on Fuji TV), are gradually shifting to Daigo of ‘Chidori’ (43). While we understand Mr. Hamada’s feelings, we cannot afford to keep waiting for Matsumoto’s return at each station.”
The question of when a venerable figure should step down is being raised.
From the March 29, 2024 issue of FRIDAY
PHOTO： Ippei Hara
