On April 10, 2025, figure skater Nobunari Oda, 38, appeared on Fuji Television's popular show 'Popoke,' where he discussed a surprising incident from his wedding. Joining him was his wife, Mayu Oda, who witnessed the heartfelt moments unfold. The episode revealed not only the emotional side of Oda but also some unexpected antics involving fellow skater Daisuke Takahashi, 39.
During the broadcast, Takahashi, a regular on the show's Thursday segment, shared a shocking revelation: he had stood Oda up at his wedding. "I think he's still angry about it," Takahashi said with a laugh, highlighting the humorous yet awkward situation. Oda had invited several people from the skating community, including Takahashi and Mao Asada, who, while sending flowers, did not attend the ceremony.
Reflecting on the incident, Oda recounted, "I got a response from Daisuke saying he would come, but on the day of the wedding, I received no contact." He chuckled while recalling how Asada sent flowers but didn’t show up, leaving him puzzled. "What does that even mean?" he joked, suggesting that the unique environment of the skating world may lead to misunderstandings about social norms.
Takahashi later explained his absence, admitting, "I really overslept. I probably drank too much the night before... I woke up at night." His candidness about the situation drew laughter from the audience and Oda, who appreciated the lightheartedness despite the initial disappointment.
As the show progressed, Oda became visibly emotional. Within just three minutes of the episode, he started to cry while watching a video tribute that showcased his illustrious skating career, his relationship with Mayu, and their life as parents to four children. The heartfelt montage resonated deeply with him, prompting tears of joy and nostalgia.
When asked by the show's hosts, the comedy duo Haraiichi, about what moved him the most, Oda responded, "Looking back on my life, I feel so grateful for the wonderful life I’ve had..." His tears, however, left Mayu feeling a bit embarrassed, as she remarked, "I'm embarrassed" while trying to contain her husband's emotional outburst.
Despite the emotional moments, the episode was filled with laughter and camaraderie. Oda and Takahashi reminisced about their long-standing friendship, dating back to their competitive skating days. Takahashi playfully remarked that he doesn't view Oda as a senior skater, to which Oda responded, "He doesn’t think of me as a senior, but he really is one!" Their banter showcased the close-knit relationships that often develop within the sports community.
The episode also featured a humorous segment where Oda revealed that he had to teach Takahashi how to use mobile ordering at a fast-food restaurant. Takahashi, who was unfamiliar with the process, found himself in a comical situation. "I was surprised at how cheap it was," he said, pretending to look at his phone screen while fumbling with the ordering process. Oda playfully exclaimed, "He knows nothing! He's so pure!" This light-hearted exchange added a delightful twist to the episode, showcasing the friendship and playful rivalry between the two skaters.
Overall, the episode of 'Popoke' not only highlighted the personal lives of these athletes but also served as a reminder of the bonds formed through shared experiences in the competitive world of figure skating. Fans of the sport got a glimpse of the human side of their favorite athletes, revealing that behind the glamour of competitive skating, there are genuine friendships, emotional moments, and, of course, a few mishaps along the way.
As the show wrapped up, viewers were left with a sense of warmth and connection, not just to Oda and Takahashi, but to the entire figure skating community. The laughter, tears, and stories shared during the episode underscored the importance of friendship and support among athletes, reminding everyone that even in a competitive environment, camaraderie and understanding can prevail.
