The excitement of the 'All-Star Thanksgiving Festival '25 Spring' held on March 29, 2025, was palpable as it showcased a thrilling array of talent and competition, culminating in memorable performances and unexpected outcomes.
TBS aired the event live starting at 5:40 PM JST, featuring the 'Akasaka Mini Marathon,' which was touted as the longest in the program's history, stretching approximately 5 kilometers. This year, the marathon saw participation from a diverse group of celebrities, athletes, and entertainers, all vying for top honors.
Among the standout competitors was Kazami Nonoka, a 17-year-old member of the popular idol group Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku (Ebichu). Kazami's performance was remarkable as she finished in 7th place overall, an achievement that garnered significant attention on social media, with her name trending under "Kazami-san." In a post-race interview, Kazami expressed her excitement, stating, "I was thrilled to run alongside such esteemed participants and pushed myself to the limit!"
The event, hosted by well-known personalities Koji Imada and Wakako Shimazaki, marked the 67th edition of the festival, which began in the fall of 1991. This year's broadcast was particularly special, as the time was extended by an hour, resulting in a 6.5-hour live show packed with entertainment. Over 100 participants, including top actors, comedians, and athletes, came together to compete in various games and quizzes.
One of the highlights of the festival was the 'Rampage Free Throw' game, which featured a unique twist with one contestant shooting free throws while another raced on a belt conveyor. This segment showcased the humorous dynamics between participants, with actor Makoto Abo jokingly encouraging his teammate Uesugi after he announced, "I bought a house!"
In terms of individual performances, Takuya Iizawa achieved a remarkable feat by winning for the second consecutive year, solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor. The final rankings for the top ten performers were as follows: 1st place went to Iizawa, followed by Akira Kawashima from Kirin in 2nd, and Niiyama from Saya Ka in 3rd. Gyaru Sone, Kashii Takashi from Eito Bridge, and Araki from Shimofuri Myojo rounded out the top six.
The atmosphere was electric as viewers tuned in to witness the competitive spirit and camaraderie among the participants, with many taking to social media to share their thoughts on the event. Kazami's strong performance, in particular, resonated with fans, many of whom praised her athleticism and determination.
As the festival continues to grow in popularity, organizers are committed to enhancing the experience for both participants and viewers. The integration of various entertainment forms, from athletic competitions to comedic performances, ensures that the event remains a staple in Japanese pop culture.
Kazami's journey in the entertainment industry has been noteworthy. Born on August 25, 2007, in Tokyo, she joined Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku in 2021 and has since showcased her talents not only in music but also in acting. Her role as Cosette in the stage production of 'Les Misérables' and her participation in the upcoming TBS program 'KUNOICHI 2025' exemplify her versatility and dedication to her craft.
The 'All-Star Thanksgiving Festival' serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of talent within Japan's entertainment scene, bringing together diverse figures from various backgrounds to celebrate their skills and entertain the audience. As viewers eagerly anticipate future editions of the festival, the success of this year's event is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Overall, the 'All-Star Thanksgiving Festival '25 Spring' not only highlighted individual achievements but also reinforced the importance of community and collaboration in the entertainment industry. With its blend of competition, humor, and camaraderie, the festival continues to captivate audiences and set the stage for future events.
