TV Industry Insider Discussion is The Next Generation of MC Comedians of Who Will Dominate the U-45 Era?
As the generational shift accelerates, who are the "real powerhouses"?
In variety shows, as well as news and sports programs, the presence of a skilled MC is indispensable. A great host not only livens up conversations among guests but also ensures a smooth flow of the show, making it shine. This is why MCs command high fees, and talented individuals have long dominated the limited number of hosting positions.
However, with major figures like Matsumoto Hitoshi of Downtown (61) and Masahiro Nakai (52) stepping down one after another, the power dynamics have shifted dramatically. As the generational transition accelerates, the question arises: Who will be the next to take the throne? For this feature, we gathered four industry insiders—A, a producer of a key network news program; B, a variety show director; C, a broadcast writer; and D, a veteran production company staff member. They have named ten comedians considered to be the true powerhouses among the next generation of MCs.
That comedian with outstanding likeability
A: Since we’re focusing on the next generation, let’s narrow it down to comedians under 45. I believe the comedian with the strongest MC skills right now among mid-career talents is Tasuku Sawabe of Haraichi (38). There was an incident on Pokapoka (Fuji TV), where he serves as MC, where a guest got overly emotional while revealing details about an ex-boyfriend, nearly causing a broadcasting mishap. While the staff was trying to adjust the situation, Sawabe quickly jumped in with a sharp remark, seamlessly turning it into a joke. I was impressed by his ability to detect danger without waiting for staff instructions and handle it smoothly without creating an awkward atmosphere.
B: I’ve heard that even during commercial breaks on Pokapoka, Sawabe interacts with the audience, keeping the atmosphere lively. He’s highly trusted by both co-stars and staff. With no major scandals and strong viewer approval, every network is eager to cast him.
C: When it comes to news and educational variety programs, Kazlaser of Maple Chogokin (40) is in high demand. A staff member who worked with him on a finance-focused educational program was amazed at his dedication to studying. He devoured books related to the show’s themes, becoming even more knowledgeable than the production team.
D: What makes Kazlaser exceptional is his ability to play dumb when needed. During a production meeting, he mentioned that when speaking with experts, he intentionally asks questions as if he knows nothing. This helps shape the program from the audience’s perspective. Many MCs try to assert dominance over guests or experts, but Kazlaser’s approach is a rare and valuable trait.
The unexpected side of that popular comedian
C: Although he was a late bloomer compared to Sawabe and Kazlaser, Ryuichi Hamaya (41) of “Kamaitachi” has been receiving an endless stream of offers recently. Having served as a personality on “ZIP!” (Nippon TV), he is also capable of hosting information programs.
A: I once worked with Hamaya on a show where he was the sole MC. The guest lineup was large and full of people eager to dominate the conversation. Some guests were struggling to get a word in, so I was about to write a cue card asking him to include them. But before I could even do that, Hamaya smoothly turned to them and asked, “What do you think?” The recording lasted about three hours, and throughout, he ensured that everyone had a chance to speak. It left a strong impression on me.
B: When I worked with him, he was humble during the pre-show meeting, saying, “I haven’t done much MC work, so I’m nervous.” But once the cameras rolled, he hosted flawlessly. It’s no wonder networks are eager to book him.
D: It may come as a surprise, but Takashi Yoshimura (44) of “Heisei Nobushikobushi,” who rose to fame with his wild persona, is also establishing himself as an MC. The show he hosts, “Taxi Driver, Take Me to the Best Restaurant!” (TV Tokyo), is now in its fourth year.
B: Behind the scenes, Yoshimura is the opposite of wild—he’s extremely diligent. He always arrives at the studio three hours before the show to prepare for pre-meetings and rehearsals. Checking out the books and video works of the guests is a given for him. But he takes it a step further—before the recording begins, he always shares his thoughts on their work to establish rapport.
C: Speaking of unexpected aspects, Shohei Osada (45) from “Chocolate Planet,” who serves as an MC on “The Kamiwaza Challenge” (TBS), has an interesting contrast. Known for his playful, kid-friendly comedy, like the TT Brothers skit, he is actually very quiet and focused on his work. He rarely engages in unnecessary chatter during meetings and hardly ever jokes around with co-stars. If a recording starts to go off track, he will firmly cut in and steer it back on course. He’s a true craftsman-like MC.
In the next part, we’ll reveal the name of a comedian at the center of recent controversies
From the March 7, 2025 issue of “FRIDAY”
PHOTO： Sankei Shimbun
