Nikagame Returns With Hilarious English Challenges

In the world of Japanese variety television, a unique blend of humor and creativity is set to return with the highly anticipated parody project "Nikagame," inspired by the global phenomenon "Ikagame." This innovative segment, which is part of the TV Asahi variety show "Can You Do It With 100,000 Yen?" has been a fan favorite, showcasing the comedic talents of Takanori Nikaido from the popular group Kis-My-Ft2. The new episode is scheduled to air on April 1, 2025, at 2:55 AM, marking its first return in nearly two years.

"Nikagame" is described as a "super-basic English death game," where Nikaido, who humorously struggles with English, attempts to pronounce various words. His past attempts have led to memorable mispronunciations, such as calling "bicycle" "Bichachire" and "theater" "The Ateru," much to the delight of viewers. This segment has not only entertained audiences but has also become a cultural touchstone, blending humor with language learning in an accessible format.

In this upcoming episode, Nikaido will be joined by Shuto Inao from the group timelesz, who is making his solo variety show debut. Inao gained popularity through the social phenomenon that was the "timelesz project" audition show, and his natural charm is expected to shine in this comedic setting. Fans are eager to see how his personality will blend with Nikaido's comedic style.

Additionally, Kemuri Matsui from Reiwa Roman, who has won the "M-1 Grand Prix" two years in a row, will also feature in the episode. Matsui has expressed his excitement about the project, stating, "It's too funny. A complete new star has been born," hinting at the high-energy atmosphere that viewers can expect.

What makes this installment of "Nikagame" particularly noteworthy is the collaboration with the original creators of "Ikagame." The show will utilize iconic elements from the original series, including the "Yonhi Humanoid" doll and the distinctive pink guard costumes. These props have been officially borrowed from "Ikagame," adding authenticity and a layer of excitement for fans of both shows. Matsui humorously suggested, "If we got official approval, we should do it in a bigger program," highlighting the high-quality production values that viewers can look forward to.

As the anticipation builds for the return of "Nikagame," fans have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm. Comments like "Was today her last day?" and "Too bad, I really liked her" reflect a deep connection viewers have with the show and its hosts. This sentiment resonates particularly well in the current landscape of variety entertainment, where personality and relatability are key to success.

In a related note, Mami Mizubu, a beloved anchor on "ZIP!" recently announced her departure from the show, leaving fans in shock and disappointment. Comments flooded in, with many expressing their sadness at her exit. This news, juxtaposed with the excitement surrounding "Nikagame," illustrates the emotional highs and lows that come with following television personalities.

As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, shows like "Nikagame" and "ZIP!" serve as reminders of the power of humor and connection in media. With its unique premise and engaging cast, "Nikagame" is poised to capture the hearts of audiences once again, proving that laughter is indeed a universal language.

As the clock ticks down to the premiere, viewers are reminded of the joy and laughter that television can bring, especially when it’s infused with creativity and a touch of absurdity. The return of "Nikagame" promises to deliver just that, making it a must-watch for fans of Japanese variety shows.