On February 28, 2025, the popular television show "Sake no Tsumami" aired on Fuji TV, featuring unique insights and humorous stories from celebrities discussing their relationships and experiences with influential figures.
This episode brought together talents such as Ami Iinuma, well-known for her baseball-related appearances, and influencer Naenano, who has been making waves in the entertainment scene. Hosted by comedian Daisuke from Chidori alongside the Football Hour duo, Goto and Iwao, the show's format encourages celebrities to share personal anecdotes, and it certainly did not disappoint.
Iinuma opened up about her strong bond with former baseball star Masahiro Sasaki. "I’m really connected with the old baseball figures, especially with Masahiro Sasaki, who always tells me, ‘You have to introduce your boyfriend,’" she shared, demonstrating the family-like relationship they have built. Their friendship is so close-knit, according to Iinuma, it almost feels like family. “It’s such a pleasure to have them involved with my life,” she added, showcasing the mutual respect and affection shared.
This humorous exchange involved Iinuma reflecting on moments where she hesitated to introduce partners due to the pressure generated by Sasaki's expectations. She recounted, "I introduced two boyfriends to him, and each time, he was grateful for the introductions. But when the relationships ended, one of them admitted, 'Honestly, the pressure of meeting Sasaki-san was intimidating.'" Host Daisuke responded with laughter, echoing what many men would feel, stating, “The ‘Daimajin’ pressure can be tough!”
On the next segment of the show, Naenano expressed heartfelt gratitude toward the legendary actor Hiroshi Takahashi, who was pivotal for her rise to fame. “I just want to thank Takahashi-san for everything he's done for me,” she stated appreciatively. Naenano recounted her first meeting with Takahashi last month, during which she was overwhelmed with excitement. "I actually got to meet the real deal—when I went to interview him for his movie promotion, he recognized me, which was so heartwarming!"
Her interactions with Takahashi didn’t just stop at acknowledgment; even his personality left her amazed. "He said, ‘When I see congested traffic, I wonder if it’s me causing it,’" Naenano recalled with delight, much to the laughter of the studio audience. Host Daisuke remarked on how thoughtful his comment was, leading Naenano to affirm, “I’m really grateful for such kindness.”
While the show kept the atmosphere light, it also allowed guests to voice other personal challenges, like juggling fame with personal life. For example, Yoshimura from Heisei Nobushikobushi, who is newly married, talked about feeling guilty as he still finds himself admiring attractive women. “You feel bad because you’re newly married, and you don’t want to be disrespectful!” he said, eliciting laughter from the group.
The topic shifted to Taka from EXILE, who humorously addressed the public perception of his band as “the men in black suits.” Taka confessed, “Every time there's a family event, I feel like I can't escape being associated with EXILE, even when I want to dress down.” The guests rallied around him, playfully brainstorming how he can tone down the “EXILE look” for casual settings.
With laughter and camaraderie, the episode eventually wrapped up, showcasing not just the glitzy side of celebrity but also the relatable, humorous moments often hidden behind the curtain. This gathering of stars was not only entertaining but also stripped away some of the glamor to reveal the human struggles everyone faces.
"Sake no Tsumami" continues to provide audiences with sincere, hearty reflections on celebrity life, touching on various truths and trials, forging connections through humor and personal stories. Viewers have come to expect such richness from every episode, creating bonds over shared experiences of love, friendship, and the occasional awkwardness of life under the spotlight.