Natsuko Yokosawa, the popular Japanese comedian, took a nostalgic trip down memory lane during the March 15, 2025 episode of Nippon Television's "Another Sky". The show featured her return to her hometown of Itoigawa, Niigata Prefecture, where she lived until she was 18 years old. This heartfelt visit allowed her to reflect on her early aspirations to become a performer, as she strolled past familiar streets and sites from her youth.
Walking through the streets of Itoigawa, Yokosawa was greeted by remnants of her formative years; the main street, the piano school where she took lessons, and the route she walked to school, all encompassed her childhood memories. The reunion with old acquaintances brought joy and warmth, rekindling pleasant recollections.
A significant highlight of her visit was a meal at her favorite ramen shop. “I have been eating here since I was in my mother’s womb,” she remarked, expressing her deep attachment to the flavors of the place. The ramen featured rich broth and delicious toppings, representative of what Itoigawa has to offer—a comforting reminder of home.
Yokosawa also shared insights about her upbringing. Raised by her father, who was a junior high school teacher, and her mother, who served as a school counselor, she described her family environment as strict. She recounted, “I had to be extremely well-behaved at home,” leading to her awakening passion for entertainment. This light-hearted anecdote emphasized how her drive to make others laugh began to blossom.
Her decision to pursue comedy wasn't without its hurdles. Reflecting on her relocation to Tokyo at the age of 18, she acknowledged the challenges and harsh realities of starting anew. “Observing people closely changed my life as an entertainer,” she stated. She also recalled her Coming of Age Day memories and the struggles she faced during her early years as she sought to find her place within the entertainment industry.
Now, as the mother of three daughters, Yokosawa discussed the balance required to manage her career and parenting. Her experiences as both a comedian and parent have brought about significant transformations, leading her to express her current thoughts on the need for empathy and connection. “I want to broaden the circle of empathy around me,” she shared passionately.
This episode of "Another Sky" revisits the roots of Natsuko Yokosawa and her fascinating life story, portraying her evolution as both an entertainer and dedicated mother. It is not just about recalling the past but also about appreciating the growth and changes she has experienced along the way.
Fans of Yokosawa and this touching episode can catch "Another Sky" airing on Nippon Television tonight at 11 PM, promising to be another heartfelt showcase of her vibrant life.