The Yomiuri TV show 'Koji Imada's Netabare MTG' aired its final episode on March 22, 2025, showcasing notable moments from its four years on air. The show, which began in April 2021, featured heated discussions between the host Koji Imada and guests, particularly surrounding COVID-19 policies. During this final episode, moments of heightened emotion from previous broadcasts were highlighted, including a memorable confrontation between Kosugi and Tatsuyuki Takaoka, Yomiuri TV’s special commentator.
In one particularly dramatic instance during the pandemic, Kosugi participated in the discussions remotely, bringing an interesting dynamic to the interaction. As he shared his thoughts on COVID measures, Takaoka fervently replied, "Kosugi-san, you say I am high-handed, but there are people who’ve gone bankrupt because we closed businesses. Families are being torn apart! How can we not be high-handed!" This moment not only sparked laughter in the studio but underscored the gravity of the conversations they were having.
Reflecting on the show’s previous discussions, Kosugi remarked humorously, "If you look at the background of my remote appearance, it’s actually the studio's background," explaining that he had managed to send a staff member a picture of the studio, which was printed and placed behind him during his remote segments. Apparently, Takaoka’s outburst on the very first day of filming remained etched in his memory, bringing smiles to the audience even on the show’s final day.
The episode also featured Yumi Furukawa, known as "Yuu Chami," who recounted her experience from the episode. Furukawa mentioned that she often gets calls from her comedian friends inviting her out for drinks, noting, “It's like, 'Let’s go!'” She specifically highlighted a recent outing with Toshiaki Fujimoto from FUJIWARA the previous day, but clarified that there were no romantic feelings developing from it. "That's absolutely not happening," she assured her fans.
This part of the episode provided an interesting contrast to the serious discussions earlier in the program. Yuu Chami continued to share that she often goes out with her “gal friends,” enjoying karaoke nights, which delights the show’s host. Imada humorously responded, "Fujimon is also like a gal!" indicating the lighthearted atmosphere that juxtaposed with the serious discussions throughout the episode.
With the culmination of 'Koji Imada's Netabare MTG,' audiences and fans reflected on the four-year journey of a program that sparked heated debates while also allowing for fun and laughter. The intricate blend of serious topics and lighthearted moments truly showcased the show's unique dynamic, illustrating the multifaceted nature of conversations surrounding society's pressing issues.
As the curtains fell on this iconic series, viewers expressed their appreciation for the candid, lively discourse that defined its essence. It stood out as a platform not merely for humor but as a significant space for meaningful discussions during a period of unprecedented challenges, thus leaving a lasting impact long after the final credits rolled.
