Timelesz’s Fanbase Soars Thanks to TAIPRO Effect: Why the Audition is Already a Success

The “timelesz project-AUDITION-” (a.k.a. “Taipro”), a new member audition program of timelesz (formerly Sexy Zone), is being distributed exclusively on Netflix.

The program will finally reach its final episode tomorrow, on the 15th, and the Internet and other media are showing even more excitement.

This project is titled “Audition to find friends” by Fuma Kikuchi (29), Katsutoshi Sato (28), and Satoshi Matsushima (27) of timelesz. The qualifications for the applicants are males between the ages of 18 and 30 who are able to work in Japan, who do not belong to any entertainment production companies or other organizations engaged in entertainment activities, and above all, who respect the past activities of Sexy Zone (original text). The application process began on May 1, 2012.

Since timelesz is an active group of STARTO ENTERTAINMENT (formerly Johnny’s), which has produced many popular idols, there were 18,922 entries.

The screening process then began, in which the three members interviewed audition participants (candidates), and “Taipro,” which follows the process, has been available since September 13.

Initially, there were negative opinions about the audition

Originally, with the old Johnny’s agency, the typical process involved auditioning to join the agency, experiencing a period as a Junior, and then either debuting with a CD or pursuing a career as an actor. The audition format seen in “Taipro” was a first-time attempt, and when it was first announced, there were many negative comments.

“However, once the program aired, it gained a lot of attention and became a big hit. The release on Netflix, which offers a variety of content, likely contributed to its success. 

The environment made it easy for not only timelesz fans but also those who weren’t particularly interested in STARTO’s idol group or those who had stopped following old Johnny’s artists to return and watch it” (idol magazine writer).

As the audition progressed, viewers who watched “Taipro” began to like the three members of timelesz, with some even joining the group’s fan club.

Additionally, on social media, there have been posts from “Taipro newcomers” (those who became fans through “Taipro”) who have joined Fuma Kikuchi’s personal fan club. In fact, posts on social media include:

“I didn’t expect to get so hooked on Taipro, but it’s been a while since I returned.”

“I was unsure about becoming a new fan from Taipro, but I finally joined the fan club. My family and I will support timelesz.”

“No matter who gets chosen in Taipro, I plan to follow their activities for a while, so I joined the timelesz fan club!”

“I joined the fan club as a new fan after 5 years! Even if my favorite candidate isn’t chosen, I’ll support the new timelesz. The influence of Taipro is amazing.”

These reports have been frequently seen.

 The main reason behind the popularity of “Taipro”

In the special episode aired on October 11 last year on “Taipro”, Kikuchi and Snow Man’s Shota Watanabe (32) had a discussion. There was also a scene where Kikuchi read a letter from Ren Meguro (27), who had joined Snow Man later.

“Snow Man’s appearance, as well as the participation of three members from the STARTO Actor Division (Daichi Imai, Takuto Teranishi, and Yoshitaka Hara) starting from the 4th round of auditions, made the fans who had been watching from the sidelines more interested in Taipro. This ability to draw attention is likely one of the reasons why Taipro became such a hot topic.

Since no new members have yet joined, whether timelesz will succeed as a group is still unknown. However, just the fact that the audition has generated new fans who have joined the fan club makes this audition a success in itself.” (Same source)

Viewers are eagerly watching to see what conclusion the show will reach.