Former TOKIO members who appeared on Tetsuwan DASH for 30 years Matsuoka and Joshima’s contracts run until March next year After Matsuoka’s confession, the December 7 broadcast of Tetsuwan DASH saw household ratings drop to 7.8%. This is lower than the previous program low of 7.9% on October 20, 2019, which had coincided with the Rugby World Cup that drew 41.6% ratings. Furthermore, the December 21 episode aired opposite M-1 Grand Prix (TV Asahi), resulting in individual ratings of 5.4% and household ratings of 8.2% (both according to Video Research, Kanto area). The content was a so-called gourmet-focused compilation, but only Matsuoka and Joshima appeared. Kokubun, Nagase, and Yamaguchi were not shown at all, prompting complaints on social media. “Until now, Tetsuwan DASH was a safe bet for Nippon TV—it was easy to calculate and reliable. Since Matsuoka’s confession, the situation is changing. The impact isn’t limited to DASH; it’s also affecting the follow-up show Sekai no Hate Made Itte Q!. DASH has been a guidepost for viewers, so when its ratings drop, there’s a correlated decrease in Itte Q! as well,” said a network insider. With the rise of other media, programs exceeding 20% ratings are now rare throughout the year. Even so, both shows had consistently maintained household ratings around 10% and a strong image, contributing to advertising revenue. “Matsuoka and Joshima’s program contracts run until March next year. Some voices inside the network suggest that restoring a once-fractured relationship may be difficult. If that’s the case, the possibility of ending the program cannot be ruled out, but whether a replacement show will be ready by spring is uncertain.” said the same insider. In contrast, Matsuoka’s YouTube channel Matsuoka no Channel has over 300,000 subscribers and steadily rising views. The channel is seen as a potential platform for Kokubun’s return. When this site asked Nippon TV about ending Tetsuwan DASH, the network replied: “There are no plans to end the program.” Still, it is clear that things are becoming hectic behind the scenes. What will happen next—remains to be seen.