Haraiichi’s Yuki Iwai Reflects on Success by Not Conforming to Others

Neither contrarian nor conformist—

 

The once-reclusive comedian known as the ‘rotten comedian’ has, before anyone realized it, become a familiar face on daytime TV.

“I sometimes hear that I’m ‘edgy’ or have a ‘unique sensibility,’ but I don’t feel like I’m being contrarian at all. Being contrarian means forcing yourself to go against the grain, right?”

Yuki Iwai (38) from the comedy duo “Haraichi,” known for his role as the comic relief and for writing their material, doesn’t read the room or bow to expectations. His words, which are true to his own sensibility, are sharp and cutting. Although there was a time when he was labeled a rotten comedian, he is now firmly regarded as a genius. 

On July 31, his 38th birthday, Iwai published his third essay collection, “This Flat Road, I Can’t Walk Straight” (Shinchosha). The book, which captures his sharp observations on everyday oddities and questions, has been praised for its ‘addictive’ quality.

 

His unique perspective prompts curiosity about its origin.

 

“When asked if I keep my antennae up all the time, I honestly don’t. I’m not consciously aware of it, but I can’t help but notice small gestures from people around me or seemingly insignificant parts of the scenery. I actually think it would be easier to live if I weren’t so sensitive.”

 

Iwai describes his hobby as “endlessly thinking about one thing.” At the core of this is his desire to uncover the root causes of everything.

 

“I’m always curious about how things work, whether it’s the universe or what’s considered common knowledge. I also apply this curiosity to interpersonal relationships. When we have an argument, I’m interested in understanding why the other person is angry, so I always ask for the reason.

Sometimes, depending on how it’s received, it might come across as pressing or might even make the other person angrier. My partner, Yū Sawabe (38), is a prime example of this. He gets upset quickly even if I just ask a little bit, so I try not to dig too deeply with him (laughs).