Former TBS announcer and current freelancer Misato Uga, 33, recently opened up about her journey and aspirations before becoming a well-known figure in broadcasting. Appearing as a guest on Nippon Broadcasting's "Top Jimu" on March 27, 2025, Uga shared insights into her early dreams and the challenges she faced during her career.
Uga, who graduated from the same university as fellow announcer Noriko Fukuda, joined TBS in 2014. Despite her eventual success as an announcer, Uga revealed that her initial ambition was to become a reporter. "I was good at writing, so I wanted to be a journalist," she explained, highlighting her strengths in written communication.
Her interest in the broadcasting industry was sparked by the desire to engage with news reporting, but Uga admitted feeling apprehensive about entering the field without any prior experience. "I thought it would be scary to enter without any experience, so I wondered if there were any seminars available to get a feel for the atmosphere," she shared. After searching, she discovered an announcer seminar that piqued her interest.
During the seminar, Uga was inspired by the words of a senior announcer who emphasized the collaborative nature of news reporting. "An announcer's job isn't something you can do alone. To create a single news story, you rely on the contributions of many people—reporters, writers, editors, camera operators—and our role is to deliver that story to the audience," the senior announcer conveyed. This insight motivated Uga to pursue a career in broadcasting, as she felt a strong desire to be part of that collaborative process.
However, Uga also faced hurdles along the way, particularly regarding her perceived credibility in the industry. Reflecting on her experiences, she noted, "I was told that at my age and with my appearance, I might not be taken seriously. I could understand that perspective, and I thought it was important to accumulate experiences and wait for the right moment to advance in my career." This acknowledgment of the challenges she faced highlights the complexities of navigating the media landscape.
In addition to her aspirations, Uga also discussed her personal philosophy regarding gifts from former lovers. In a YouTube short video released on March 28, 2025, she expressed her belief in utilizing items received from past relationships. "I don’t throw things away. If I like them, I use them, regardless of who gave them to me. If I don’t want them, I’ll discard them, but the origin doesn’t matter because they are mine," she stated. This pragmatic approach resonated with viewers, who praised her rationality and ability to separate emotions from material possessions.
Uga's candidness extended to her views on communication in relationships. When asked if she preferred verbal affirmations from partners, she responded, "Yes, I think it’s lazy not to express your feelings. Assuming someone understands without saying anything feels arrogant to me." This perspective underscores her belief in the importance of clear communication and the value she places on expressing emotions openly.
Returning to her professional experiences, Uga reflected on her time as a TBS announcer, particularly the physically demanding nature of some assignments. When asked about the most challenging job she undertook, Uga recounted her work as an interviewer for the popular program "SASUKE," which features contestants navigating an obstacle course. "The most difficult job I had as an announcer was covering 'SASUKE.' I had to run alongside the participants, interviewing them right after they fell to capture their emotions in that moment," she recalled.
Uga described the adrenaline rush of chasing after contestants to get their immediate reactions, emphasizing the physical stamina required for the role. "You have to be right there in the moment, and as fatigue builds up, it becomes a real test of endurance. That was definitely the moment when I needed the most physical strength in my career," she said, reflecting on the demands of the job.
This candid sharing of her experiences not only highlights Uga's dedication to her craft but also offers a glimpse into the less glamorous aspects of being a broadcaster. Her ability to balance personal insights with professional anecdotes makes her a relatable figure in the media landscape.
As Uga continues to navigate her career as a freelancer, her journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring broadcasters. Her commitment to authenticity, whether in her personal life or professional endeavors, resonates with audiences who appreciate her straightforwardness and determination.
In a world where the media landscape is constantly evolving, Uga's experiences remind us of the importance of resilience and adaptability in pursuing one's dreams. Whether discussing her early aspirations, her views on relationships, or the challenges of her profession, Uga embodies a spirit of perseverance that many can admire.
As she moves forward in her career, there is no doubt that Uga will continue to captivate audiences with her insights and stories, proving that her journey is just as compelling as the news she delivers.
