Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation (Osaka) announced on April 21, 2025, that the variety show 'Downtown DX,' hosted by the comedy duo Downtown, will end its broadcast on June 26, 2025. This decision comes after a comprehensive evaluation of the program's future, as both Hitoshi Matsumoto (61) and Masatoshi Hamada (61) are currently on hiatus from their entertainment activities.
'Downtown DX' first aired in October 1993 and has enjoyed a remarkable 32-year run on the Nippon Television Network System. The show has been a staple of Japanese television, featuring a mix of humor, celebrity interviews, and engaging discussions that have captivated audiences across the nation.
In a statement regarding the show's conclusion, Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation explained that the two hosts had conveyed through their agency, Yoshimoto Kogyo, their concerns about causing trouble for many people involved due to their hiatus. The company stated, "After examining the future of the program, we have decided to end the broadcast based on a comprehensive judgment."
Matsumoto announced his hiatus in January 2024 after a weekly magazine reported allegations that he had forced sexual acts on women. Although he withdrew his lawsuit against the magazine in November 2024, he has not yet resumed his entertainment activities. Meanwhile, Hamada has been on leave since March 2025 due to health issues.
Since April 2025, the show has been featuring a rotating cast of substitute hosts, as both main hosts have been unable to appear. This unusual situation has led to a scramble to keep the show running, with various junior entertainers stepping in each week.
Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation expressed gratitude to the viewers, stating, "We will continue to deliver laughter until the very end, so we hope everyone will tune in to the final episodes." The production company also indicated that details regarding a successor program will be announced in the future.
The end of 'Downtown DX' marks a significant moment in Japanese television history, as it has been a beloved program for over three decades. Fans have taken to social media to express their sadness at the show's conclusion, with many commenting on the loss of a significant part of their entertainment landscape. Posts such as, "It feels like the end of an era," and "I will miss both of them on screen," reflect the deep connection viewers have had with Matsumoto and Hamada.
In addition to the show's cancellation, both members of Downtown have stepped down from their roles as ambassadors for the ongoing Osaka/Kansai Expo, further highlighting their current absence from the entertainment scene. Despite the challenges, there is hope among fans for a potential comeback. Matsumoto has previously discussed the idea of launching his own distribution platform, tentatively titled 'Downtown Channel,' which could provide a new avenue for their comedy and entertainment.
As the final episodes of 'Downtown DX' approach, viewers are encouraged to tune in for a nostalgic farewell to a program that has been a significant part of Japanese pop culture. The legacy of Downtown, with their unique blend of humor and charisma, will undoubtedly be remembered as they navigate this challenging period in their careers.
While the future remains uncertain for both Matsumoto and Hamada, their fans remain hopeful for a revival of their partnership in some form. The anticipation surrounding the 'Downtown Channel' project has sparked excitement, with many eager for updates on its progress. Comments from fans include, "I believe Downtown will come back, even if it's not on TV!" and "I will definitely subscribe to the Downtown Channel once it's launched!"
As the entertainment industry watches closely, the conclusion of 'Downtown DX' serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of television and the impact of personal challenges on public figures. The show may be ending, but the influence of Downtown and their contributions to Japanese comedy will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
