On March 30, 2025, the beloved Japanese television program "Gyoretsu no Dekiru Sodanjo" aired its final episode after a remarkable 23-year run. The live broadcast, which started at 7:00 PM JST, was hosted by comedian Koji Higashino, who took on the role of master of ceremonies (MC) after the show's original host, Tasuku Shimada, retired in 2011 amid controversy.
The final episode was a three-hour special that brought together a host of familiar faces from the show's history, including prominent talents like Takeshi Kakehashi and Haruo Kitamura, as well as a formidable group of lawyers. The atmosphere was nostalgic as the cast reflected on their experiences over the years.
One of the highlights of the program was a segment dedicated to the "Cambodia Project," which aimed to build elementary schools in Cambodian villages. This initiative, first introduced in 2009, was a significant undertaking that involved selling 100 paintings created by entertainers through an auction. The project raised an impressive 169,964,300 yen, which helped fund the construction of 16 schools in various locations.
During the final episode, Higashino and Kitamura visited one of the schools established through the project, interacting with students and meeting graduates who have since become contributing members of society. This heartfelt reunion underscored the lasting impact of the project, which was inspired by a passionate speech from Shimada, who had emphasized the importance of taking action to help those in need.
"It's really difficult to do something like this. When you see someone in need, it's easy to look down from above, which is very disrespectful. Even knowing that, it's better to do something than nothing at all," Shimada had said during the program, encapsulating the spirit of the initiative.
As the final moments of the broadcast unfolded, Higashino attempted to deliver his farewell message. He expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the show's significant cultural impact. "I'm not the leader, but as the oldest member, this is my last greeting. 23 years ago, Shimada started this Gyoretsu. It became a big program that became a social phenomenon," he began, but his speech was cut short as the program unexpectedly ended.
This abrupt conclusion left viewers and cast members alike momentarily confused, highlighting the unpredictability of live television. Higashino's emotional connection to the program was palpable as he reflected on the legacy of Shimada, who had been a groundbreaking figure in Japanese entertainment.
In a touching moment, Higashino addressed Shimada directly through the screen, saying, "Shimada-san, the school is increasing like this, and I hope it will continue and connect to the future. I hope you can rest assured." Kazuko Kwarano, another long-time regular on the show, echoed his sentiments, expressing her hope that Shimada would return to the spotlight one day.
The legacy of "Gyoretsu no Dekiru Sodanjo" is not just in its entertainment value but also in its ability to mobilize viewers for a good cause. The Cambodia Project remains a testament to the show's commitment to social responsibility and its ability to inspire action among its audience.
In 2011, Shimada's career took a controversial turn when his connections to organized crime were revealed, leading to his retirement from the entertainment industry. Despite this setback, his influence on the show and its charitable initiatives continued to resonate with fans and participants alike.
As the final episode drew to a close, the cast shared their reflections and emotions about the show's journey. The program's impact on Japanese culture and its role in addressing social issues through entertainment cannot be overstated. The show's blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and serious discussions about societal problems made it a staple of Japanese television.
With the conclusion of "Gyoretsu no Dekiru Sodanjo," fans are left with a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the memories created over the years. The program's successor, "Golden SixTONES," is set to premiere on April 6, 2025, but it remains to be seen if it can capture the same magic that made "Gyoretsu" a beloved institution.
As viewers bid farewell to a show that has been a part of their lives for over two decades, the legacy of Tasuku Shimada and Koji Higashino will undoubtedly continue to influence the landscape of Japanese entertainment. The final episode served as a poignant reminder of the power of television to bring people together and inspire change, leaving a lasting mark on the hearts of its audience.
