Kirin Roman has made history by winning the M-1 Grand Prix 2024, marking their second consecutive title at this prestigious comedy competition held on December 22, 2024. The event aired on ABC and TV-Asahi, featuring ten talented teams, including the reigning champions, Kirin Roman, who have now established themselves as the first duo to achieve back-to-back victories.
The comedic duo, consisting of Takahira Kuruma and Matsui Kemuri, who formed their partnership in 2018, dominated the competition from the outset. Competing against other notable acts, they scored impressively high with 850 points on their opening performance. This remarkable feat secured them the championship and the top prize of 10 million yen, cementing their status as luminaries within the Japanese comedy scene.
The 2024 M-1 Grand Prix featured nine other formidable acts, including contestants like Mayurika, who fought their way through the comeback rounds to reach the finals. The show’s competitive atmosphere was heightened by both returning and new judges deciding the ultimate winner, including renowned performers such as Tomoko Uehara from the duo Uehara Yasuyo, and guest judges like Kenji Yamauchi from Kamaitachi.
Kirin Roman's path to success has been framed not just by this win but also by their previous accolades, including their victory at the 2023 M-1 Grand Prix and the 45th ABC Comedy Grand Prix they won earlier this year. Each performance solidified their reputation, demonstrating not only their comedic talent but also their ability to connect with audiences, which is often emphasized by their energetic and relatable material.
After their win, Takahira Kuruma expressed his gratitude, stating, “Winning again feels surreal. We’ll continue to work hard to make everyone laugh,” reflecting the duo's commitment to their craft and their desire to reach new heights. Matsui Kemuri echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of the continuous effort to entertain, telling fans, “Kirin Roman has set a new standard for comedy with their second win.”
This year’s competition was notable not just for the performances but also for its historical significance as the duo now sits among some of the most celebrated comedic talent in Japan. Their win has sparked discussions among fans and industry insiders about the evolution of comedy and the increasing standard set by modern comedic duos.
With Kirin Roman’s triumph at M-1 Grand Prix 2024, they have laid down the challenge for future contestants, setting lofty standards for comedic performance. Their unique blend of humor, teamwork, and perseverance showcases what it takes to be at the top of Japan's competitive comedy scene. This win is not just another title; it promises to open doors for various opportunities for the duo within the entertainment industry and offers exciting prospects for their future performances.
Many fans celebrated the duo's win, flooding social media with congratulatory messages and expressing their anticipation for the following year’s competition. The duo's influence extends beyond the stage; they are now looked up to by aspiring comedians eager to follow their path. The impact of their achievements radiates through the comedy circuits, igniting hope and inspiration amid competition.
Fans of Japanese comedy will undoubtedly be eager to see how Kirin Roman leverages this momentum moving forward. Their deja vu victory at the M-1 Grand Prix is sure to influence the comedic narrative of the upcoming years, maintaining the enthusiasm and competitive spirit within the community.
With accolades to show and aspirations high, Kirin Roman’s future looks bright as they continue their comedic adventure. Their commitment to making people laugh remains unwavering, and as they’ve shown, there’s much more to come from this dynamic duo.