Nakai Overcomes Health Concerns, Steps Into Radio Station in Polo and Shorts

“It’s so hot!”

In early July, Masahiro Nakai (51) visited Nippon Broadcasting System (Tokyo, Yurakucho). He was there for the recording of his regular program, “Nakai Masahiro ON & ON AIR,” dressed in a sporty outfit of a black polo shirt, shorts, and white sneakers. Judging by his tanned face and arms, he appeared to be in quite good health.

“In November 2022, he took a hiatus from work for health reasons, and his significantly weight loss led to speculation about cancer. He returned to work at the beginning of 2023, but concerns about his health persisted. Moreover, in February this year, Shoichi Kuroki, a renowned producer at Fuji TV who worked on shows like ‘SMAP×SMAP,’ passed away at the age of 54 from leukemia. 

Nakai and Kuroki had a personal relationship, often dining together. Additionally, in March, Jun Kobayashi, the director of ‘ON & ON AIR’ and a longtime collaborator with Nakai, also passed away. Fans were worried about Nakai’s ongoing stress due to the loss of these close friends.” (a variety show director at a private TV station)

 

Despite these challenges, on July 13, Nakai appeared as a co-host with Shinichiro Azumi for “Music Day 2024” (TBS), showing his energetic self for eight hours. The finale featured a pleasant surprise for fans, as Nakai sang SMAP’s song “Yozora no Mukou.”

“Six hours into the broadcast, the special dance stage featuring 18 dance vocal groups, which started in the 8 o’clock hour, was very high-energy. While Nakai didn’t dance, he energized the crowd as the MC. This enthusiasm seemed to carry through to the finale.” (previously mentioned director)

Returning to the earlier scene: waiting for Nakai, who walked from the parking lot to the building entrance with an expression weary from the heat, were about 20 fans. Although he usually doesn’t react to such gestures, on this day he acknowledged the fans with a glance. This small gesture suggested he was in good spirits.

For the fall programming changes, reports suggest that a new show hosted by Nakai might begin after the cancellation of “Johnson” (TBS) this autumn. Nakai appears to be doing exceptionally well this year.

 

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