Japan's long-running morning news program, "Wake Up!", is officially concluding after 34 remarkable years of broadcasting on Nippon Television. The announcement came during the live broadcast on March 1, 2025, by announcer Shinobu Nakatani, who has recently taken on the solo hosting role.
"Here, I have an announcement from our program. From 1991 until 34 years, we have been airing 'Wake Up!', but it will conclude on March 29," Nakatani shared, marking the end of an era for the program and its dedicated viewers.
Originally premiering on January 5, 1991, "Wake Up!" was hosted initially by Jiro Shinbo, with the beloved Rakugo performer Bunshin Katsura stepping aboard as co-host from April of the same year. Over the decades, the program established itself as a mainstay of Saturday morning television, providing viewers with news covering both national and international topics. The format gained popularity for blending current events with light-hearted commentary and entertainment features.
The show underwent changes over time, including the transition to its current name, "Wake Up! Plus," starting from April 2005 when Jiro Shinbo returned to the helm. This format continued until Shinbo's departure, after which the show reverted to its original name, "Wake Up!" continuing until now. Notably, it has featured various prominent personalities, such as legal analyst Shuya Nomura, and smoothly transitioned to Nakatani’s leading role until recently.
Reflecting on the impact of "Wake Up!", Nakatani expressed, "With heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been watching us for such a long time, we will deliver news diligently until the end. Please join us for the remaining four broadcasts." Her sentiments resonate with both nostalgia and appreciation for the loyal viewership through the years.
Yomiuri Television, which produced the program, emphasized their appreciation for the audiences as well. They stated, "We have been grateful for the long-standing viewership, and we will deliver news properly until the final episode." This assurance assures fans of the program's commitment to quality even as it reaches its closure.
Alongside this farewell, it was revealed several other programs would also conclude, including the Saturday morning show "Aasa Para S", hosted by the comedy duo High Heel, which will air its final episode on the same day. The network has promised to feature special segments for both shows' last outings, intending to celebrate the legacy they leave behind.
Throughout its air time, "Wake Up!" has successfully integrated important updates on national and international events with entertainment segments, often making it more than just another morning program; it became part of the daily routine for many viewers. Its absence will surely be felt, prompting discussions on the future of morning broadcasts on Japanese television.
The legacy of programs like "Wake Up!" contributes to the fabric of morning television, setting standards for news presentation with charm and insight. The final broadcast on March 29 will not only mark the end of "Wake Up!" but also symbolize changes on television screens across Japan, leaving audiences to reflect on what they cherished during those four decades of informative and engaging content.
Viewers will undoubtedly gather one last time to witness the concluding moments of "Wake Up!", as it bids farewell by expressing gratitude and joy from the hosts and extended team behind the scenes. The conclusion of this long-standing program serves as both an end and the beginning of new narratives within the fabric of morning television.