Matsumoto Hitoshi’s Downtown Channel Becomes Premium with Hamada’s Participation

A discussion held within the NTV headquarters

A 32-year history comes to an end.

The long-running show “Downtown DX” (NTV, Yomiuri TV), hosted by Downtown, will end with its broadcast on June 26. The program, which had been a staple for 32 years, was concluded after discussions within Yomiuri TV about the future of the show. The network reported:

“While considering the future of the program, Downtown expressed their intention through their agency, saying, ‘We are causing inconvenience to many people due to our hiatus,’ and after comprehensive consideration, it was decided to end the broadcast.”

Matsumoto Hitoshi (61) was involved in a female-related scandal reported by Shukan Bunshun in December of the year before last. He then took a break from showbiz to focus on litigation in January. Although he dropped the lawsuit in November of the same year, a return to regular TV programs has yet to be seen.

His partner, Hamada Masatoshi (61), also announced a break due to health issues on March 10. The unusual situation where both hosts were absent from their own program continued. According to an entertainment reporter from a sports newspaper:

“For ‘Downtown DX,’ they themselves felt like they had done all they could. The two of them were the only fixed members, and the rest of the cast rotated weekly. They judged that ending the show would not have a significant impact.”

What remains of concern is whether other programs will also end. As for other Downtown-led shows, “Wednesday Downtown” (TBS), which gained massive popularity due to its bold concepts, is expected to continue. The one in question is “Downtown no Gaki no Tsukai” on NTV. Although no changes have been made to the broadcast, NTV insiders have discussed whether it should continue.

“Before and after Hamada’s break, there were discussions within NTV about what should be done in the future. Many voices within the network are leaning toward the idea of ending the show,” said an NTV insider.

If “Gaki no Tsukai” ends, it would also affect the work of regular cast members such as Kokoriko (Endo Shōzō, Tanaka Naoki) and Tsukitei Hōsei. However, according to an entertainment source:

“Neither of them are young and are independent,” meaning the end of the show wouldn’t be too difficult to achieve. (When asked about the possibility of “Gaki no Tsukai” ending, NTV responded, “There are no such facts.”)

Producer Hitoshi Matsumoto’s skill

“Of course, given that it’s called ‘Downtown,’ it’s unfortunate that we can’t foresee Matsumoto’s return. The pressure that Hamada feels on his solo regular programs is different from that of the duo’s programs,” said an entertainment industry insider.

On the other hand, with the end of crown shows like “Downtown DX,” the “rarity” of the upcoming new media project, “Downtown Channel (temporary),” will increase unexpectedly.

In an interview with Matsumoto last December, part of the project was revealed, but the full scope remains unclear. However, it was confirmed that Hamada would be involved. Looking at the title alone, some may mistake it for a YouTube channel for the duo, but in reality, it is a big project beyond that level.

“It’s a paid comedy platform. ‘Downtown Channel’ is just a placeholder; the name could change. The concept is that it will feature various comedy content with Matsumoto at the helm. Currently, this will be the only place where you can see both of Downtown together. I believe it has an anti-TV industry stance, especially with the limitations of what can and can’t be made,” said an insider familiar with the situation.

Even while on a break, Hamada has shown understanding and full support for Matsumoto’s vision.

Matsumoto’s skills as a producer, showcased in shows like “Documental” on Amazon Prime Video, have gained recognition. The end of their crown programs may mark the first step of a new challenge for Downtown.