Nakabashi Koji, the acclaimed Kabuki actor, recently captivated audiences during his appearance on the popular television show 'Fuyugo no Bushō', airing on TV-Asahi. This emotional segment featured Nakabashi openly sharing his unwavering admiration for former professional baseball player and Yomiuri Giants legend, Takahashi Yoshinobu.
During the episode broadcast on January 8, Nakabashi was joined by fellow Kabuki actors including Nakamura Takashinosuke and Ichikawa Somagoro. The conversation turned personal as Nakabashi reflected on his childhood memories tied to baseball and the impact it had on his life. His love for the Giants family runs deep, shaped significantly by receiving a glove from Takahashi at the tender age of 14—a cherished moment he vividly recalled on the show.
“Everything around me is orange,” Nakabashi exclaimed, explaining how he embodies his loyalty to the Giants not just through spirited fandom but also through his home decor choices. Adorned with orange pillows, phone cases, and even shoes, his surrounding are vivid tributes to his team spirit! He even humorously shared, “I realized I was immersed in orange everywhere—my sneakers, my refrigerator, my bags... everything,” showcasing his passion and dedication.
But what does this enthusiasm stem from? Nakabashi revealed his biggest passion, saying, “I considered him my lifelong favorite.” His affection for Takahashi was so significant he couldn't pass up the opportunity to celebrate the player during his own performances. Each match now becomes another moment to wear his cherished Takahashi jersey, and he frequently attends games to reignite those childhood flames of glory and support.
During the episode, he also recounted the pure joy it brought him when Takahashi gifted him with orange curtains on the occasion of Nakabashi's own Kabuki debut—a gesture Nakabashi described as “incredibly delightful.” His intense fandom often invites friendly teasing from his peers, especially when fellow guests reveal their own familial ties to the Giants. For example, Takashinosuke noted how his father's admiration clued him to the Giants’ glory, yet Somagoro interjected with humor, admitting he didn’t fully understand the game rules, much to everyone’s amusement!
Black柳 Tetsuko, the show's host, couldn't hide her surprise at Somagoro's confession, playfully exclaiming, “It's rare for boys your age to know nothing about rules!” This light-hearted banter provided comic relief throughout the segment, yet it underscored Nakabashi's serious love for the sport. Nakabashi's endurance as a fan epitomizes how sports can create lasting emotional bonds between people and their heroes, transcending generations.
A key takeaway from Nakabashi's warm reminiscence was not only the joy of sports but how it has interwoven with traditional arts like Kabuki; he realizes through his idolization of Takahashi how both worlds continue to inspire dreams and creativity. Nakabashi's story is emblematic of how public figures can shape our lives, grounding us with nostalgia, love, and ambition.
His continuing legacy showcases how many layers of experience come entwined with fandom, particularly how it encourages us to embrace the colors of our passions—much as Nakabashi has with his singular devotion to the Giants and the spirited Takahashi Yoshinobu. This viewer connection remains timeless, melding the worlds of sports, theatre, and life itself.
By boldly stepping on the program, Nakabashi has filled hearts and minds, invigorated sports appreciation, and reminded everyone of the enduring power of admiration. Let their formative experiences resonate, reminding us of the impact impactful personalities can have on our journeys through life.