The highly anticipated M-1 Grand Prix 2024 is set to take the stage with the announcement of nine impressive judges who will evaluate the comedic talents competing for the top prize. This announcement came on November 15th, generating buzz and excitement among fans of comedy.
This year’s judging panel comprises notable figures from the entertainment industry, including Nakagawa-kei’s Reiji, NON STYLE’s Ishida Akira, Knights’ Hanawa Nobuyuki, and Yasu Tomoko from Uehara. Three of these judges are making their debut as judges for the M-1 Grand Prix: Wakai Masayasu, Shibata Eiki, and Yamauchi Kenji. Their fresh perspectives are anticipated to contribute to the lively competition.
Adding to the intrigue, the iconic comedian Matsumoto Hitoshi will not participate this year, having withdrawn from the judging panel. Last year's group included Matsumoto alongside Reiji, Hanawa, Tomoko, Hakata’s Daikichi, and others, totaling seven judges. This year, the team has expanded to nine judges to bring new energy to the event. Other notable absentees from previous years are Yamada Kuniko and Sandwich Man’s Tomizawa Takeshi, who will also not contribute their judging expertise this time.
The grand competition, scheduled for broadcast on TV-Asahi on November 22nd, will be remarkable as nine groups compete for the coveted title of the nation’s top comedian. Among the finalists will be Mamataruto (San Music), Reiwa Roman, Jock Rock, Shinkuu Jessica (Jinrikisha), Evers, Tom Brown (Keidash Stage), Yarelens (Keidash Stage), Daitaku, and Batterys. This year, fans will also see a “revival battle” where one more group from the semifinals can secure their place as the final competitors of the evening.
The judges for the revival battle have also been announced and feature some of the previous M-1 champions, known for their unique styles and perspectives on comedy. The judging panel for this segment includes Westland’s Iguchi Hiroyuki, Toros Salmon’s Kubota Kazunobu, Trendy Angel’s Saito Tsukasa, Magical Lovely’s Noda Crystal, and Nishikigoi’s Watanabe Takashi. Their experience and nuances from past competitions are expected to add depth to the evaluation of budding comedic talent.
With all the changes and the introduction of new judges, the excitement for M-1 Grand Prix 2024 is palpable. Fans eagerly await how these new perspectives will shape the event and influence the next generation of comedians striving for greatness on the national stage. The blend of experienced and new judges creates high anticipation not only for the performances but for the judging as well.
This year’s event promises to showcase the best of Japanese comedy, and with the new lineup, viewers are sure to witness remarkable moments, unexpected turns, and plenty of laughter. The announcement has certainly set the stage for what is expected to be one of the most thrilling M-1 Grand Prix competitions yet.
