Why Today’s Music Shows Are Turning to Controversial Actors and Gyaru Stars

Black casting becomes a hot topic

This summer, major music specials were broadcast across Japan’s television networks, and their distinctive approaches—unlike those seen in previous years—have become major talking points.

On July 4, “THE MUSIC DAY 2026” (Nippon TV) featured “Shuji to Akira,” the unit formed by Tomohisa Yamashita (41) and Kazuya Kamenashi (40), performing their smash hit “Seishun Amigo.”

But the biggest talking point was “TV Tokyo Music Festival 2026 Summer,” where controversial actors such as Issei Ishida (51) and Noriko Sakai (55) passionately performed theme songs from dramas they appeared in during their heyday. The show’s bold casting and production became trending topics on social media.

“The running order was carefully put together, too, with Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi (70) and Sayuri Kokusho (59), who have both previously been the subject of infidelity allegations, narrowly crossing paths. And that theme-song medley from dramas aired on other networks was just pure chaos.

They even had Hidekazu Akai (67) sing ‘Bokutachi no Shippai’ by Doji Morita, the theme song of ‘High School Teacher’ (TBS). Tokio Omori, an up-and-coming director who has worked on several experimental programs such as ‘Kono Tape Mottenai desu ka?’ (‘Do You Have This Tape?’), completely shattered the conventional wisdom of music programs.” (Production company director)

Music programs face strict copyright restrictions, making it extremely difficult to keep them archived for long periods, so monetizing them through streaming is almost impossible. Even so, why do television networks continue to invest so heavily in music programs?

“One major factor is that they appeal to a broad range of target audiences, from young people to fans of nostalgic music. Since catch-up streaming is only available for a limited period, there’s an advantage in being able to generate strong real-time ratings. Sponsors still pay close attention to ratings. There are also benefits for artists: appearing on music programs can boost CD sales and streaming numbers, making it relatively easy for networks to negotiate appearances. That’s a huge help for the networks.” (Key network producer)

In addition to special programs, shows introducing hit songs by generation have also become popular, increasing demand for artists from past eras.

“ORANGE RANGE went viral after releasing a Reiwa-era version of one of their music videos last year and subsequently appeared on NHK’s ‘Kohaku Uta Gassen.’ Porno Graffitti, whose signature song ‘Agehachou’ was used as a drama theme song, is also said to have the potential for a comeback. Maki Goto (40) is often cast as well because she attracts attention with her beauty, which holds its own even when she collaborates with current idols.

“These days, it’s difficult for songs that appeal to all generations to become hits. On the other hand, bringing in Heisei-era artists who are experiencing a revival is well received across generations and can deliver strong ratings. This trend is likely to continue for some time.” (Same production company director)

A TV writer analyzes that upbeat gal-type talents are being valued as hype people to add a contemporary feel to programs that can otherwise seem old-fashioned because of their reliance on veteran artists.

“Yuchami (25) has become an indispensable presence on ‘Hamada Kayo Festival ★ Ookami Shounen’ (TBS), where her carefree singing of nostalgic songs she doesn’t even know, while enthusiastically going along with the performance, has gone viral because it’s funny. Hirona Nagahama (18), nicknamed ‘Ohina-sama,’ who broke out through a dating reality show, is also good at commenting and knows a lot about the latest music trends. She has become a valuable bridge between middle-aged and older viewers and younger audiences.”

We have entered an era in which music programs can no longer survive simply by having artists perform hit songs.

From the September 25, 2026 issue of “FRIDAY.”