NHK’s Female Announcer Duo Mayuko Wakuda and Maho Kuwako Shine in Latest Power Map
With the rise of new ace candidate Moeko Soejima and the eldest daughter of former TBS announcer Takae Mikumo, NHK's female announcers now outnumber those of the commercial broadcasters in terms of both popularity and ability.
In today’s television industry, NHK boasts the thickest layer of female announcers. Mayuko Wakuda (35) and Maho Kuwako (36) stand as the double pillar, with Meio Fukushima (32), who is slated to be appointed as the main anchor of “NHK News 7” from April this year, and Risa Hayashida (34), who has served as the main anchor of “News Watch 9,” both showcasing their potential as the next generation of aces.
Why have such a formidable legion of female announcers gathered, surpassing commercial networks? Let’s analyze the strength of this powerhouse through thorough interviews with television industry insiders and experts.
Of the two top figures, Kuwako received high praise from various experts.
“Kuwako is quick-witted, and when she’s around, the talk on the show livens up. She doesn’t hesitate even when dealing with big-name celebrities, making her an excellent fit for hosting events like the ‘Kohaku Uta Gassen’ (Red and White Song Battle). The fact that ‘Bratamori’ (Buratamori) became a stepping stone for young announcers is partly because of Kuwako’s emergence. In contrast, she demonstrates a strong determination to fulfill her role as a news caster by conducting on-site coverage in Ukraine for the current program ‘Close-up Gendai’ after her assignment.” (Columnist, Takeshi Kamekawa)
Wakuda is scheduled to go on maternity leave from the next fiscal year. The station will face a significant void.
“Because of her clear articulation, her announcements are easy to understand, and she always looks at the camera after finishing reading the news. This allows for a smooth transition to the next topic. She pays attention to such details. The recent major changes in NHK’s announcer personnel are heavily influenced by Wakuda’s upcoming maternity leave. With her departure leaving a significant gap, the station is now searching for the next ace.” (Female Announcer Critic, Daijiro Maruyama)
Although Wakuda’s absence will be significant, NHK has no shortage of talent to cover for her. Leading the charge is Meio Fukushima, who will inherit “News 7” from Wakuda.
“After working at broadcasting stations in Oita and Nagoya, she was assigned to the Tokyo Announcing Department in just three years. This is an abnormal speed, comparable to Wakuda’s pace. She is clearly on the fast track for success as an NHK announcer. While she began her career in Tokyo as a sports caster, she was appointed as the main anchor of ‘News 7’ from April. With her strong ability to read scripts, if she can suppress her slightly high-pitched voice, she should be able to level up even further.” (Maruyama)
Mayuko Wakuda (35)
News 7, University of Tokyo graduate
A remarkable announcer racing through the television industry at an astonishing speed.
Moemi Sokushima (32)
News Ohayou Nippon → News 7, Keio University graduate
NHK’s rising star expected to succeed the Kuwako and Wakuda duo.
