Downtown’s Masatoshi Hamada Surrounded by Program Staff Beams with Smile

 

When “Wednesday Downtown,” without Matsumoto, aired on January 31st and “DX” on February 1st consecutively, comments on social media included remarks like looking unusually tired and clearly swollen. Furthermore, there were also such observations.

“Clearly, it seemed like they were pushing their enthusiasm too hard, or rather, trying too hard to be upbeat. There were more scenes where they loudly laughed at the guests’ comments, and it felt like they were desperately trying to liven things up with gentle responses rather than sharp retorts. Even Hamada-san, who’s usually composed, seemed to have his energy levels change so drastically without his partner, which surprised the staff,” said a TV magazine writer.

With Matsumoto, who had always been by his side, suddenly absent, it’s understandable that there was a difference in the dynamics, which initially affected the atmosphere. Viewers might have been perplexed by such a change in Hamada.

“However, given his unmatched prowess as an MC compared to other comedians, now there are no worries at all. The staff’s reputation is also very positive. There are even voices from guests saying that the studio atmosphere has become brighter than before, and they can feel that coming through the TV screen,” concluded the writer mentioned earlier.

Matsumoto’s trial is expected to take at least another two years until a verdict is reached, but Hamada has completely adapted to being a solo MC. It seems unlikely now that he will seek a new partner.

 

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