With “MUSIC” Facing Possible Cancellation Amid Declining Viewership Nippon TV Reportedly Pleads

Give me a proposal for anything.

It is fine to cancel, but the complete lack of new proposals has only increased the pressure. This was visibly reflected in the October 13 broadcast of Sekai no Hate Made Itte Q!, where Yuya Tegoshi (36) returned to the show after four years.

“At Nippon TV, they have been saying ‘Our strength is in variety,’ and have instructed their young staff members, including those in their 20s, to just submit any proposals. Many young writers have been approached. Tegoshi’s return was one of these proposals, and it was a casting choice made without hesitation. Four years ago, Tegoshi was dismissed from his agency after repeatedly holding drinking parties with multiple women during the pandemic, leading to his departure from NEWS and Itte Q!.

Since then, the show had focused on incorporating a lot of female comedians, but the ratings stagnated, and the show faced numerous challenges, including key writers leaving. However, with Tegoshi’s return, the program has regained some of its vitality. It was a success in the end,” said the producer.

As a result, the show’s ratings rose 3.6 points compared to the previous episode on September 29, reaching a solid 13.5%, which became a hot topic both within and outside the network.

Nippon TV’s decision to call for any new proposals, regardless of the concept, and their willingness to bring in catalysts like Tegoshi to revive existing popular shows highlights their desperate attempt to turn things around. It remains to be seen what bold moves they will make next in an effort to reclaim their audience.

FRIDAY Digital welcomes information and tip-offs from everyone. Please send your information to the following information form or to the official X.

Information form: https://friday.kodansha.co.jp/tips
Official X: https://x.com/FRIDAY_twit