The long-running anime series Sazae-san, a staple of Japanese television since its debut, is set to air its final episode on March 31, 2025. This beloved show, originally broadcasted in Tokushima Prefecture by JRT Shikoku Broadcasting, affiliated with Nippon Television, will conclude its longstanding presence in the region.
For the residents of Tokushima, the scheduled last broadcast reflecting on 55 years of history holds significant emotional weight. Scheduled for 10:55 AM on Mondays, Sazae-san has been an integral part of Sunday family entertainment, much like the nationally famous Chibi Maruko-chan. With the end date fast approaching, many locals lament the loss of the show that has resonated across generations.
Moreover, the discontinuation of Sazae-san reflects a broader trend affecting the Japanese broadcasting landscape. According to commentary from a source within the Sazae-san Janken Research Institute, Fuji Television's struggles, marked by sponsor withdrawals and declining program sales, signify larger financial troubles. It was reported that, along with the departure of major sponsors, Fuji Television is seeing reduced sales for programs outside its own channel— issues that compound the revenue decline for shows like Sazae-san.
Tokushima residents face a unique challenge; to access any television programming beyond their local offers, including other popular networks, they would need to install UHF antennas to receive broadcasts from the Kansai region or sign up for cable TV services. For many older citizens living on fixed incomes, particularly those relying on pensions, the cost—approximately 2000 yen for cable service—is a substantial burden. This situation signifies how essential such local programs are for providing entertainment and companionship to the aging population in Tokushima.
The fallout from recent controversies surrounding former talent Hidehiro Nakai, particularly in connection with advertising sponsorships, has further complicated the scenario. Nishimatsuya, a prominent sponsor, withdrew its support for Sazae-san in late January 2025, directly linked to the fallout from Nakai's compensation issues. This withdrawal has had ripple effects, as commentators suggest that the show may not find new sponsors to fill the void before the program's final airing.
As of March 23, 2025, reports indicate that Sazae-san was continuing without any sponsors, reinforcing concerns about the financial viability of local programming in Tokushima. Industry representatives have expressed skepticism about the reinstatement of sponsorship in the upcoming fiscal year, noting that if new measures or disciplinary actions are not put in place based on the third-party committee's findings regarding Nakai's controversies, sponsorship may remain elusive.
In a statement by an advertising representative, it was made clear that, “The third-party committee report may not result in restored sponsorship if it lacks convincing prevention measures or penalties,” highlighting the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Fuji Television's capacity to regain its lost advertiser relationships.
The loss of Sazae-san comes at a time when nostalgia and community connections are increasingly important to the older demographics in Tokushima. With only two television stations available—NHK and JRT Shikoku Broadcasting—viewers are left with minimal options. If the local populace is unable to enjoy their beloved shows, the ramifications will extend beyond simple entertainment; local culture and the communal experience television provides could diminish similarly.
As the final episode approaches, many Tokushima residents hope that the local broadcasting landscape will adapt to continue delivering quality programming to its viewers. Until then, Sazae-san will remain a cherished part of their lives, even as they must prepare to say goodbye to this iconic anime.
