On January 13, 2025, renowned Japanese pop group 20th Century is set to make headlines as they participate in the milestone 100th All-Japan Costume Awards show, airing live on Nippon Television from 19:00 to 21:54. Known for their long-standing career and connection with the audience, 20th Century decided to join this beloved event, capturing the essence of fun and creativity central to Japanese entertainment.
The All-Japan Costume Awards, which began back in 1979, has become a staple on Japanese television, garnering immense popularity over the decades. This year's competition is particularly noteworthy, with 34 talented groups selected from over 3,580 entries, all vying for the prestigious prize. Fans have been eagerly anticipating this event, and 20th Century’s involvement elicits heightened excitement. The group, comprising Kaito Iinokura, Hiroshi Nagano, and Masayuki Sakamoto, took the unconventional route of submitting their entry without notifying the show’s hosts, Akimoto Kinichi and Katori Shingo. This adds an element of surprise to their appearance.
Kaito Iinokura shared the motivation behind their decision to enter the Costume Awards. He reminisced, "Since we were children, the three of us have always watched the Costume Awards, so we applied. Although we have been together for 37 years, it's the first time we have worked on something together like this.” This declaration resonates with many fans who have followed their careers and watched them grow from young idols to seasoned performers.
The preparation for the competition was filled with excitement and noticeable tension. Utilizing materials purchased from a home improvement center, the trio dedicated themselves to crafting the best costume possible. Hiroshi Nagano offered his thoughts on the creativity displayed during the auditions, stating, "After seeing the performances of others during the auditions, I thought everyone was really amazing and had great ideas. The level of completion was high!” Clearly, the other participants left a strong impression on him.
On the other hand, Masayuki Sakamoto expressed the universal jitters contestants often feel before competing. He humorously remarked, "I was so nervous I felt sick.” This candid reflection showcases the immense pressure all performers endure, achieving recognition on such celebrated platforms.
The 100th All-Japan Costume Awards marks not just the longevity of the beloved show but also the evolution of Japanese pop culture and its ability to adapt fundamentally to keep audiences engaged. It is events like this where participants from various backgrounds come together to celebrate artistry, teamwork, and the spirit of competition—elements deeply rooted within Japanese society.
Fans of 20th Century are eagerly counting down the days to see what creative costume the group has engineered and how it will resonate with viewers nationwide. The excitement surrounding this event is palpable, with social media buzzing as fans speculate on what the trio, known for their uniquely charismatic styles, will bring to the stage.
More than just competition, the All-Japan Costume Awards hold sentimental value for many fans including 20th Century themselves, illustrating how art can forge connections across generations. This year’s special milestone allows them, along with their fans, to reflect on their collective journeys and share another memorable moment together.
With all eyes set on January 13th, 2025, viewers can look forward to witness not just the costumes but the heartwarming camaraderie of 20th Century at the All-Japan Costume Awards. They aren’t just entering to win; they are taking part to celebrate the magic of creativity and, above all, their cherished memories associated with the show they loved as children.