On March 15, 2025, Nii Eriina, a prominent freelance announcer, revealed through her Instagram that she would be stepping down as the host of the popular program 'Naze soko ni?' which airs on TV Tokyo. Nii has been a staple of the show since its inception, serving as MC for nine years since its previous iteration, 'Sekai Naze Soko ni? Nihonjin ~ Shirarezaru Haki Mancho~.' The announcement comes with the news of her successor: Kato Ayako, a former Fuji TV announcer who has returned to the entertainment scene.
The reason behind Nii's departure is generating considerable discussion, particularly since she has announced her second pregnancy and is due to give birth in the spring of 2025. A TV magazine writer commented, “Nii has been known and cherished as the face of the show for many years, but speculation suggests that her graduation may have a lot to do with her family plans.” This narrative indicates that Nii's decision to step away from her role may be related to her impending responsibilities as a mother of two.
Interestingly, this isn't the first time Nii has faced a tough decision regarding her career in connection with motherhood. After giving birth to her first child in 2023, she took maternity leave but returned to the program in less than a year. Given her previous swift comeback, audiences might debate whether her latest graduation is purely due to her pregnancy or if other factors may be influencing her decision.
Nii Eriina’s successor, Kato Ayako, has carved a significant niche in the broadcasting industry since transitioning from Fuji TV to freelance work. Kato has achieved considerable success as an MC, brand ambassador, and participant in various commercials. However, her career trajectory also reflects a commitment to family. In 2022, she announced her departure from the show 'Live News It!' to prioritize family time and her wellbeing, stating that she wanted to focus on her health and family. This move highlights Kato's dedication to balancing her professional career with personal responsibilities.
Kato married a general man in June 2021 and welcomed her first daughter on December 29, 2023. Her recent experiences as a new mother might resonate well with Nii’s situation, and many will look to see how she handles the responsibilities of being an MC while managing family life.
The transition in hosting duties highlights an ongoing conversation surrounding women’s roles in broadcasting, particularly when balancing career and family. The narratives surrounding both Nii Eriina and Kato Ayako will likely prompt discussions about the societal expectations placed on women and mothers in the workplace, especially in media and entertainment.
As Nii steps back, her legacy as a pioneering female figure in Japanese television remains undeniable. Her ability to hold the audience's attention and navigate complex discussions over nearly a decade makes her departure significant not only for viewers of 'Naze soko ni?' but also for the broader media landscape. Kato Ayako is now poised to assume this prominent role during a transitional phase in both her career and the industry, with many following closely how she will adapt and flourish in this new position.
The broadcasting community continues to express support for both women as they navigate their personal and professional journeys. As new chapters begin for Nii and Kato, audiences are left with a story of evolution, resilience, and the continuous struggle for balance in a fast-paced world.
This change is emblematic of a wider trend in media where women are increasingly visible in leadership roles, yet still face the challenge of juggling motherhood and career ambitions. It remains to be seen how Kato Ayako will manage hosting with family commitments, and whether Nii Eriina will remain connected to the industry in a new capacity post-maternity.
As the broadcasting landscape evolves, the experiences of these two women serve as a reflective lens on societal patterns—illustrating how roles are shifting, and how different pressures persist in the realm of entertainment.
