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Arts & Culture
25 March 2025

Kouji Kumeta Wins Fourth Hibaku Award On Sanma Goten

The beloved manga artist continues to engage audiences with his unique humor during the show's milestone 800th episode.

March 25, 2025, marked a memorable episode of the Japanese television show Sanma Goten, as it celebrated its 800th regular broadcast anniversary featuring notable personalities who have won the coveted Hibaku Award. Among them was renowned manga artist Kouji Kumeta, who made his fourth appearance on the show and, once again, claimed the Hibaku Award, an accolade he has now received for all four of his visits.

The episode titled “Regular Broadcast 800th Breakthrough Anniversary! Celebrities SP Who Won the Hibaku Award” showcased moments from past winners, and Kumeta's presence was particularly highlighted. Known for his unique sense of humor, he remarked, “I received the Hibaku Award...,” making him a standout figure on this special retrospective segment of the show.

This consistent recognition of Kumeta is a testament to his enduring appeal and the fondness audiences have for his witty and often satirical approach to storytelling. Kumeta first appeared on the show in earlier seasons, where he has consistently showcased his extraordinary comedic talent, demonstrating why he has become a fan favorite.

Adding to the excitement, Sanma Goten also featured the popular idol group SixTONES, particularly spotlighting Hokuto Matsumura. On the night of the broadcast, Matsumura shared a humorous and somewhat poignant narrative involving his fellow group members Miyachika Kaito and Shime Kakeyuki. He mentioned feeling out of touch with them, pondering, “Am I the one who’s wrong?” during a candid discussion on their dynamics.

Matsumura's interaction with veteran comedian Akashiya Sanma provided comedic relief as well, exemplified by a sharp 'tsukkomi' from Sanma aimed at him for his lighthearted remarks.

Both Kumeta and Matsumura's segments were received with enthusiasm, building excitement for their contributions to the cultural tapestry of Japanese entertainment.

Kumeta's frequent appearances on Sanma Goten illustrate his mastery of comedic timing and his insightful commentary about contemporary issues through his animated discussions. His recent award-winning moment further solidified his place in the pantheon of Japan's comedic talent.

Looking forward, Matsumura is set to star in the musical Once, which is scheduled to be performed in multiple locations including Tokyo, Aichi, Osaka, and Fukuoka this September and October. This new role promises to add another layer to his evolving artistic journey, demonstrating his versatility as both an idol and a performer.

This episode of Sanma Goten serves as a reminder of the intersection of comedy, celebrity, and audience engagement, celebrating the laughter and shared experiences that have kept fans tuned in week after week.

The Hibaku Award signifies not just popularity but a connection with the audience, and for both Kumeta and Matsumura, their ability to resonate with viewers has reaffirmed their places as beloved figures in Japanese pop culture.

With captivating narratives and engaging performances, these artists contribute to the vibrant landscape of Japanese entertainment, proving that humor and heart remain at the core of what makes television impactful.

This celebratory broadcast not only reinforces their status but also reflects the cultural significance of shows like Sanma Goten in fostering a community where comedy meets companionship.

As fans look forward to further appearances from Kumeta, Matsumura, and other celebrities, the anticipation grows for future episodes, reinforcing the delightful unpredictability that keeps viewers engaged.

In the end, this 800th episode serves as a tribute to the rich history and ongoing journey of Sanma Goten, a cornerstone of Japanese television that continues to bring joy and laughter to its audience.