On March 27, 2025, talent Chiaki Horan, 36, made her final appearance as a caster on TBS's news program 'N-Sta', where she had served since April 2017. The show aired at 3:49 PM, and Horan's departure was marked by an emotional farewell that resonated with both the staff and viewers alike.
As the program drew to a close, Horan expressed her heartfelt gratitude, struggling to hold back tears. "I believe that everyone here made me a caster, and because the viewers continued to watch, I was able to become a caster, and 'N-Sta' was able to continue broadcasting," she said, her voice trembling with emotion. "I feel like the happiest person in Japan at this moment," she added, reflecting on the support she received throughout her career.
During the opening of the show, announcer Takayuki Inoue described the atmosphere as feeling like a "school open day," highlighting the warm and familiar environment created by the staff. Horan, in response, smiled and acknowledged the team behind the cameras, saying, "The staff here are capturing my last moments with the best equipment, and it feels like a warm memory." This light-hearted exchange set a positive tone for the program's final broadcast.
Horan's journey on 'N-Sta' spanned eight years, during which she became a beloved figure in Japanese news broadcasting. Reflecting on her time, she remarked, "When I think about what these eight years have been, I realize how precious this time has been to me." In a segment around 6:13 PM, she reminisced about her experiences, saying, "It feels like just three months ago that I announced my graduation. This 25-minute segment was a vital time for me to connect with viewers nationwide, and it has been a stimulating experience working with JNN stations to deliver the news. I've learned so much during this time."
As the broadcast continued, Inoue humorously noted the differences between their national broadcasts and local network segments, prompting laughter from Horan. "That's true, isn't it?" she replied, chuckling. The camaraderie between the two was evident, showcasing the strong bond they had developed over the years.
Horan's emotional farewell was met with applause from the studio staff, who had gathered to celebrate her contributions. She expressed her gratitude not only to her colleagues but also to the viewers, saying, "I hope I was able to be of some help to everyone. Thank you very much," as she waved goodbye to the audience.
Born on September 28, 1988, in Tokyo, Horan made her acting debut in 2005 with the 'Super Sentai' series, 'Magiranger'. She transitioned into news broadcasting in April 2012 as an assistant caster for 'NEWS ZERO' before taking on her role in 'N-Sta'. Her departure from the program marks a significant change, as announcer Mai Izumizu will take over as Horan's successor starting in April, shifting the dynamic from the Inoue-Horan duo to Inoue-Izumizu.
As Horan concluded her time on 'N-Sta', she left a lasting impact on the audience and her colleagues. Her ability to connect with viewers and convey the news with sincerity has made her a cherished figure in Japanese media. The emotional farewell not only celebrated her achievements but also highlighted the importance of the relationships she built throughout her career.
In a media landscape that often sees rapid changes, Horan's departure from 'N-Sta' serves as a reminder of the personal connections that form the backbone of news broadcasting. As she embarks on a new chapter, both her colleagues and viewers will undoubtedly miss her presence on the screen.
