“A Life Dedicated to Work” – Tokumitsu Remembers Minomonta
Tombstone 2025] Another year, another national star, famous actor, and emcee has departed. We bring you his words of regret along with his treasured photos.
Monta Mino
Passed away on March 1, age 80
In May 2024, Mino was interviewed while battling Parkinson’s disease. Right up to the end, his strong spirit of service never faded, and he continued to captivate readers.“A Die‑Hard Devoted Husband—and a True Bon Vivant”
Kazuo Tokumitsu (General Host)
Mino was a lovable junior of mine from our days in Rikkyo University’s Broadcasting Research Society, and we shared a friendship that spanned 60 years. Losing someone I could talk to freely and rely on has left me nothing but lonely.
On the surface, he may have looked frivolous, but he was a serious guy who paid attention even to young assistant directors. He was like a shark that never stopped moving, even at the expense of sleep—and that way of life was exactly who he was. His drum‑rolling, hype‑man style of storytelling had a charm that ordinary announcers simply couldn’t imitate. And once the work was done, he would pay his dues in Ginza, entertain younger staff with evenings at traditional restaurants—he really knew how to spend money gracefully, a genuine man of pleasure. One lingering regret I have is that I never once got the chance to treat him to a banquet myself.
At the same time, his love for his late wife, Yasuko‑chan, ran deep, and even in later years the two would show a sweet, affectionate closeness. He truly was a die‑hard devoted husband. I think he’s now reunited with Yasuko‑chan in heaven, telling her, “Sorry I kept you waiting,” and finally feeling at ease. Minorikawa—keep getting along over there too, reminiscing together. A great‑grandchild was just born, so I’ll stick around a little longer, but I’ll come visit you before long.
From the December 19 and 26, 2025 combined issue of “FRIDAY”
PHOTO： Yasuko Funamoto, Hisayuki Semba