The stage is set for Japan's premier comedy competition, the M-1 Grand Prix, as the judging panel for the upcoming 2024 edition has been officially announced. During the special pre-broadcast program titled “M-1 Grand Prix 20th Anniversary: We Too Can Be Funny! The Story of 10,000 Entries,” aired on December 15, the nine-member jury was revealed, consisting of notable comedians and personalities.
This year’s judges include Wakabayashi Masayasu, Reiji from Nakagawa family, Yamauchi Kenji, Hanawa Yoshiyuki, Hakata Daikichi, Seki Akira, Uehara Tomoko, and Ishida Akira. This year marks the third absence of Matsumoto Hitoshi, who has missed the judging panel for the third time since the show's inception, having previously missed it in 2004 and 2015.
With the competition originally starting as a seven-person jury, the M-1 Grand Prix will follow the nine-judge format seen since 2015. The absence of Matsumoto, along with Yamada Kuniko and Tomizawa Takeshi from Sandwich Man, has drastically modified the lineup, which now features several new judges debuting this year: Shibata, Yamauchi, and Wakabayashi. On the other hand, judges like Ishida and Seki are making their return since their last participation back in 2015.
This fresh lineup brings notable changes to the judging frequency, with Reiji now overseeing the competition for the 10th time, Hanawa having presided over seven, and Hakata Daikichi handling it for the fifth time. Meanwhile, Ishida, Tomoko, and Seki have each faced the judging panel two times, and the newcomers, including Wakabayashi, Yamauchi, and Shibata, are all taking on the role for the very first time.
The rivalry is heating up this year as the reigning champions, Reiwa Roman, and the 2023 runner-up, Yaretsu, lead the diverse group of participants for this 20th edition of the M-1 Grand Prix. Remarkably, the competition has attracted over 10,330 entries, promising to be tightly contested for the coveted title and the grand prize of 10 million yen.
Hosted by popular comedians Imada Kaoru and actress Ueto Aya, the event will see the final showdown broadcasted on December 22 at 6:30 PM on the ABC TV and TV-Asahi networks. Fans eagerly anticipate which duo will seize the title of Japan’s best comedian.
Historically, the M-1 Grand Prix has been recognized for its significant changes across the years. For reference, notable judges from previous years include figures such as Shimada Shinji, Matsumoto Hitoshi, and other well-known comedians who contributed to its legacy since the competition started back in 2001. The judging panel's composition has varied widely, shaping the event’s progression and reputation within the comedic community.
During its history, notable past winners such as Nakagawa family and Non Style have paved the way for newer talents to shine. The 2024 edition not only marks another academic undertaking of comedy but also serves as a stage for fresh talent to rise.
While Matsumoto Hitoshi has been absent twice previously, his notable absence this time raises several questions about the future direction of the M-1 Grand Prix. Rumors surrounding Matsumoto's recent legal issues may suggest his withdrawal from the public eye and his comedic commitments.
Last year, it was reported by Shukan Bunshun about Matsumoto allegedly coercing sexual acts from women, which he later sought damages for against the publication. Following the lawsuit’s withdrawal concluded on November 8 this year, observers eagerly await developments on his eventual return to public performances and events.
Consequently, the anticipation for the results of this year’s competition remains high as spectators wonder how the absence of Matsumoto Hitoshi will impact both the event and the contestants. With fresh faces taking the stage, the question on everyone’s mind is whether this year will see new champions emerge, or if the favorites like Reiwa Roman can retain their title amid fierce competition.
