On May 7, 2025, TOKIO's Masahiro Matsuoka, 48, made an engaging appearance on TV Asahi's popular talk show "Tetsuko no Heya," hosted by the iconic Tetsuko Kuroyanagi. Known for his role as the flamboyant housekeeper Mitazono in "Kaseifu no Mitazono," Matsuoka shared insights into his life, including his dual-location lifestyle and candid reflections on aging.
During the episode, Kuroyanagi, who has been a staple of Japanese television for decades, asked Matsuoka about his recent experiences following the death of his beloved dog, Hime-chan. Matsuoka confirmed that he had traveled to Hakodate, Hokkaido, to heal from his loss. "Yes, that's right," he nodded, recalling the bittersweet memories of his time there.
Matsuoka, who hails from Sapporo, expressed his growing connection to Hokkaido, revealing, "I’ve been getting more work in Hokkaido lately." He mentioned his desire to establish a second office in Hakodate, explaining that it would facilitate his work and allow him to spend more time in the region. "I thought about creating a place where I could stay while working there," he said, highlighting his commitment to nurturing his roots.
As the conversation shifted to travel, Matsuoka shared his unique commuting experience. "Sometimes I take the Shinkansen with my dog, which is quite an adventure!" he laughed. He also reminisced about the delicious food that Hokkaido offers, noting, "The seafood is amazing, and the vegetables are delicious too. Right now, there's garlic chives available, and when I eat them pickled in soy sauce, it brings back memories and makes me feel at home." His enthusiasm for local cuisine was evident as he described the flavors that remind him of his childhood.
In a more serious vein, Matsuoka opened up about the realities of aging. When Kuroyanagi asked him if he ever feels old, he candidly admitted, "I started noticing presbyopia around the age of 42. It’s tough because I can’t read the scripts without my reading glasses." Despite maintaining good vision, with regular checkups showing 1.5 in both eyes, he humorously lamented, "It’s a strange phenomenon when you can see well but can't read the text!"
Matsuoka's reflections on aging didn’t stop there. He recalled a time when he was reluctant to wear warm undergarments, saying, "I used to avoid wearing them, but I realized how warm and comfortable they are. Now, I can’t live without them!" His lighthearted approach to the challenges of getting older resonated with viewers, as he emphasized the importance of adapting to change.
Health is a priority for Matsuoka, who shared his daily routine. "I do light stretches every morning and then walk for about an hour and fifteen minutes. It keeps me feeling good," he noted proudly. Additionally, he mentioned his practice of designating two days a week as liver rest days, explaining, "After a break, the first drink tastes even better. I want to enjoy my drinks for as long as I can!" Kuroyanagi appeared impressed by his dedication to health and wellness.
As the show progressed, Kuroyanagi and Matsuoka reminisced about their past interactions. Kuroyanagi expressed her delight when Matsuoka recited Mitazono’s catchphrase, which brought a wave of nostalgia for both the host and the audience. Matsuoka first appeared on "Tetsuko no Heya" in 1995, just a year after TOKIO debuted. He humorously recalled being just 18 years old at the time and barely speaking during the episode. "I was so nervous back then, I hardly said a word!" he laughed, reflecting on how much he has grown since then.
Throughout the episode, Kuroyanagi continued her tradition of asking Matsuoka about marriage, a topic that has become a staple of their conversations. While Matsuoka’s responses often elicit laughter, he remains coy about his personal life, keeping viewers guessing about his future.
In a moment of light-hearted banter, Kuroyanagi teased Matsuoka about his age and marital status, prompting him to respond with a smile, "Well, I’m not in a rush!" Their playful exchanges showcased the chemistry between the two, making for an entertaining segment that kept the audience engaged.
As the show came to a close, viewers were left with a sense of warmth and connection. Matsuoka's candidness about his life, health, and the joys of Hokkaido resonated deeply, highlighting the importance of cherishing memories while embracing the changes that come with age. Kuroyanagi's ability to draw out these heartfelt stories has solidified her place as a beloved figure in Japanese entertainment.
In reflecting on Matsuoka's journey, it’s clear that his experiences resonate with many, making him not just a star but a relatable figure navigating the complexities of life. As he continues to balance his career between Tokyo and Hakodate, fans eagerly await his next steps, both on and off the screen.
