Fuji Television recently made headlines with its decision to cancel two of its long-running programs: 'Wide Na Show' and 'Dareka to Nakai'. The announcement, which shocked fans and staff alike, has significant implications for Matsumoto Hitoshi, one of Japan's most prominent comedians.
The cancellation of 'Wide Na Show', where Matsumoto was previously one of the main hosts, has been surrounded by controversy following the comedian's stepping down from the program last year. Matsumoto, 61, hosted 'Wide Na Show' since its inception as a late-night program back in 2013. His departure came after the airing of troubling allegations against him, which were published by the magazine Weekly Bunshun. These allegations suggested inappropriate conduct, prompting widespread scrutiny from social media critics.
Although Matsumoto claimed through social media, saying, “The allegations are unfounded, and I will fight them. I will also participate in 'Wide Na Show',” he eventually refrained from appearing on the show after facing backlash, including accusations of “privatizing the airwaves”. This drama has greatly overshadowed the show's legacy and contributed to the network's decision to pack it up.
The show 'Dareka to Nakai', which originally launched as 'Matsumo to Nakai' back in 2020, also faced similar turbulence. It featured Nakai Masahiro as Matsumoto’s co-host, but as Matsumoto entered hiatus due to the controversies, the role was taken up by actors Ninomiya Kazunari and Muro Tsuyoshi. Their varying styles brought fresh perspective to what was initially characterized as the classic Matsumoto-Nakai dynamic.
Meanwhile, during the broadcast of 'Wide Na Show' on December 15, 2023, comedian Higashino Koji addressed the rumors surrounding the show's imminent cancellation. His comments came during the show's live segment, where he noted, "I feel sorry for the confusion caused to the viewers" referring to the swirling discussions about the future of the program. When co-host Tamura Atsushi pressed him on whether the cancellation news was “just fabricated,” Higashino sidestepped the question replying with, "No comment", demonstrating the evasive tactics networks often employ amid uncertainty.
The decision to end both shows hasn’t been universally accepted. Fans and media outlets have expressed mixed feelings, with many disappointed to see such influential platforms for comedy and discussion go dark.
Matsumoto’s impact on Japanese television cannot be directly measured, but his presence has shifted the humor and discourse style on screens throughout the nation. With two major shows now heading toward cancellation, the future looks uncertain for him and for Fuji Television’s attempt to recapture its audience.
It seems like Fuji Television is distancing itself from Matsumoto as controversies continue to rise and tarnish its image. The decision suggests not just operational changes but also reflects the media industry’s tightening scrutiny on talent conduct. It remains to be seen what direction Fuji will take now, as cancellations hint at operational overhauls aimed at recovering viewer trust.
For fans, the uncertainty surrounding Matsumoto’s return is palpable, echoing the unpredictable nature of entertainment today. Comedic talent like Matsumoto is rare; his brand of humor complements the unique Japanese broadcasting style. Whatever the future holds, his absence from these beloved shows leaves behind significant footprints.
The broader cultural impact of these cancellations may just indicate the beginning of new approaches within Fuji Television and possibly inspire changes across broadcasting norms. Audiences may watch with bated breath to see how this saga evolves. With pressure mounting from various fronts, Fuji Television is at a crossroads, deciding how to navigate the backlash from both viewers and within its ranks.
