Japanese entertainment is seeing dynamic shifts as 2025 begins, with significant attention focused on beloved celebrities and upcoming productions. A recent survey has identified which stars audiences are eagerly anticipating to see back on terrestrial television.
Conducted by Women’s SPA!, the survey revealed the top five celebrities people want to see return to the small screen. Leading the pack is Matsumoto Hitoshi, with over 25.8% of respondents wanting his comeback. Matsumoto, once ubiquitous on television, has been absent following accusations of misconduct and subsequent hiatus since January 2024. Despite this, many fans remain devoted, expressing sentiments like, "I just want to see Matsumoto!” (reported by Women’s SPA). Although he has announced plans for a monthly subscription channel, it seems he might not be back on regular programming soon.
Coming in second place is the actress known for her unique persona, Non, with 25.0% supporting her return. While she has appeared locally on NHK and other networks, fans are curious as to why she remains sidelined from larger productions following her independent ventures since 2016. One male respondent expressed, "That unique presence should definitely be seen starring in terrestrial drama!" underscoring the public’s appetite for her charisma.
Third on the list is Kagawa Teruyuki, capturing 21.8% of votes. Kagawa has gradually been restoring his presence through high-profile performances, albeit on premium channels like WOWOW. Known for his compelling performances, audiences are eager to see him back on mainstream television. One viewer expressed the hope to witness Kagawa’s traditional acting style, saying, "I want to see his refined, nuanced performances rather than over-the-top roles I associate with him.”
Tegoshi Yuya, formerly of NEWS, stands fourth with 16.5%. Although he recently regained traction with appearances on shows like 'World's Funniest,' opinions vary widely between genders, illustrating fluctuated tolerance levels toward his past controversies.
Beyond celebrity comebacks, the theater space is springing to life with adaptations. One such highlight is the stage production of 'WIND BREAKER.' The adaptation is based on the incredibly popular manga featured on the Magazine Pocket app and has generated substantial buzz. Details emerged as it opened on January 3, 2025, at theaters throughout Osaka and Tokyo.
Directed by Ueki Go, known for his impressive past projects, the stage is set to showcase the deep-rooted themes of struggle and camaraderie among misfit high schoolers. The cast, led by the rising star Ishikawa Ryoga, promises to delight audiences with their performances. The production team hopes to deliver not just entertainment but also to explore social themes through physical storytelling, allowing voices previously marginalized to resonate on stage.
For comedy enthusiasts, the annual 'Nichiyou Chaplin' show is back, flanked by top-tier talent, including MC Uchimura Akihiro. This event has accumulated unmatched popularity due to its format and lineup, allowing for improvisational elements alongside rehearsed sketches.
The 2025 edition will bring together renowned performers like the duo Chidori and Harisenbon, who will partake alongside figures like Einstein and other current favorites. Clips surrounding this event hint at fresh and funny narratives being crafted to tickle viewers’ funny bones, warning everyone of unique surprises and unexpected comedic twists.
Reflecting on the array of personalities set to dominate screens and stages this year, it’s clear the Japanese entertainment scene remains vibrant and full of passion. With fan fervor at unprecedented heights and the industry brimming with creativity, 2025 promises to deliver excitement, nostalgia, and new adventures alike. Whether through the television screen or the theater stage, audiences are primed and ready for the innovative expressions of their favorite stars.
It's evident from the concerted efforts of the productions and the survey's outcomes just how deeply the public desires entertainment. With admiration for legacy figures and the new talent surfacing, Japan's media remains at the heart of its cultural fabric.