ABEMA, the innovative streaming service aiming to reshape television, has unveiled its latest series titled 'Girls Who Can't Be Touched'. Scheduled for regular episodes every other week, the program is dedicated to shedding light on the lives and journeys of various women experiencing personal challenges and societal pressures.
The first episode aired on December 20, 2024, featuring the inspiring Anna Umeumi, who is currently battling Stage 3A breast cancer. The show takes viewers through her emotional and physical struggles, offering rare, intimate glimpses of her life during treatment. Umeumi candidly shares her hardships, including the shock of losing her hair as a side effect of chemotherapy. "I was shocked when my hair fell out after chemotherapy; I washed and clumps fell out," she recounted, illustrating the emotional toll of her diagnosis.
Personal Stories of Strength
Throughout the series, ABEMA aims to highlight not only Umeumi's story but also those of other women who have faced their own battles. The hosts, MEGUMI, Ayame Gouriki, and Hikoro Hii, each bring their perspectives, engaging with guests such as Sayo Matsumura and Kasumi Mori, who share their thoughts on the broader themes of femininity, resilience, and happiness.
Mori commented on Umeumi's courage, saying, "Seeing this will truly save many people," which emphasizes the show's mission to provide hope and solace through shared experiences. The series intends to create discussions around women's rights, their identities, and their quest for happiness against various odds.
One of the more emotional moments highlighted from Umeumi's participation was her return home from surgery where her daughter, Moka, surprised her with beautifully decorated balloons. Umeumi's unexpected emotional reaction serves as a reminder of the pure joy and comfort family can bring during challenging times. "I had no idea...!" she exclaimed, tears streaming down her face, reflecting the immense love shared within family bonds.
Voices of Experience
The series does not shy away from the harsh realities women often face. Each episode is crafted to provoke thought and inspiration, allowing audiences to witness the challenges and triumphs of women like Umeumi, who continue to inspire as they battle personal demons and societal expectations. The conversations within the series are raw, unfiltered, and filled with real emotions, giving viewers the permission to reflect and engage actively.
ABEMA has strategically positioned itself as a platform for original storytelling, emphasizing diverse experiences through programming catered to various interests. With approximately 25 different channels, the platform has become synonymous with accessible and interesting content, ranging from dramas to documentaries, and interactive talk shows.
This approach reinforces ABEMA's commitment to create meaningful content, where 'Girls Who Can't Be Touched' is just the latest effort to push boundaries and redefine what women's narratives can look like on screen.
Offering insight and comfort, the series resonates beyond entertainment, providing genuine reflections on women's struggles and the pursuit of happiness. It promises to be both enlightening and uplifting, making it a significant addition to ABEMA's catalog of original content.
With the rich experiences shared by guests across episodes, viewers are encouraged to engage with the discussions and find strength reflected within the lives of those portrayed. 'Girls Who Can't Be Touched' offers more than just stories; it showcases the resilience of women who continue to rise, instilling hope for many who may share similar experiences.
ABEMA's concerted efforts to blend entertainment with authentic narratives pave the way for richer dialogues around women's happiness, rights, and the social changes necessary for progress. With such engaging content, ABEMA remains committed to its mission of becoming the go-to platform for transformative television for the modern audience.
