The comedy duo Downtown, consisting of Hitoshi Matsumoto and Masatoshi Hamada, has officially resigned as ambassadors for the upcoming Osaka/Kansai Expo. The announcement came on March 31, 2025, from their management company, Yoshimoto Kogyo, which confirmed that the resignation was due to the duo's ongoing hiatus.
According to a statement released on the official website of the Osaka/Kansai Expo, the resignation was accepted on the same day. The statement noted, "We have received the resignation request due to the ongoing hiatus of both members of Downtown." The Expo organizers expressed gratitude for the contributions Matsumoto and Hamada have made since their appointment as ambassadors.
Downtown, which debuted in the entertainment industry in 1982, has been a significant presence in Japanese comedy. However, both members are currently on hiatus for personal reasons. Hitoshi Matsumoto has been on hiatus since January 2024, following allegations of sexual misconduct reported by the weekly magazine Shukan Bunshun. He announced his hiatus to focus on a lawsuit related to these allegations.
Masatoshi Hamada has also been temporarily resting since March 10, 2025, due to health issues. His condition has led him to step back from public appearances and performances, further complicating the duo's role as ambassadors for the Expo.
The Japan International Exposition Association, which oversees the Osaka/Kansai Expo, confirmed the resignation in their own announcement on March 31. The association noted that Downtown had been serving as ambassadors since March 2017, initially to promote the Expo's bid and later, after the event was officially confirmed, from February 2020.
In their statement, Yoshimoto Kogyo emphasized their commitment to supporting the Osaka/Kansai Expo despite the resignation of their prominent ambassadors. "We will continue to work hard to promote the Osaka/Kansai Expo," the company stated, indicating that they remain dedicated to the event's success.
The Osaka/Kansai Expo, set to open on April 13, 2025, aims to showcase innovations and cultural exchanges from around the world. The event is expected to attract millions of visitors and promote global cooperation.
Despite the challenges faced by Downtown, their legacy in Japanese entertainment remains strong. The duo has been a staple of the comedy scene for decades, known for their unique humor and engaging performances. Their resignation as ambassadors marks a significant moment in the lead-up to the Expo, reflecting the impact of personal circumstances on public roles.
As the Expo approaches, the organizers will likely seek new ambassadors to fill the void left by Downtown. The event's success will depend not only on its programming and attractions but also on the public figures who represent it.
In the meantime, Matsumoto's legal situation continues to unfold, and the public awaits updates on both his and Hamada's health and future in the entertainment industry. The resignation of Downtown as ambassadors serves as a reminder of the complexities that can arise in the public eye, where personal challenges often intersect with professional commitments.
As the Osaka/Kansai Expo gears up for its opening, the focus will remain on creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and innovation. The absence of Downtown may be felt, but the Expo's mission to connect people and ideas remains steadfast.
