TBS is ringing in the New Year with joy and inspiration as it celebrates the 30th anniversary of its beloved special, "Sanma and Tamao’s New Year’s Gift! Let’s Make Your Dreams Come True 30th Anniversary Special," airing on January 5 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This annual event not only entertains viewers but also brings dreams to life through touching surprises and emotional moments.
This year’s show brings back the core theme of using the power of television to fulfill people's dreams. Among the stars gracing the special are the talented singer Yoko Oginome, who collaborates with a cheer dance team, rock band Mrs. GREEN APPLE, and popular actor Takuya Kimura.
One of the most heartwarming segments features Yoko Oginome. The cheer dance team, whose members have an average age of 55, submitted their dream to dance with the notable singer. They regularly perform their own version of her hit song, "Dancing Hero," but this time they take on the challenge suggested by Oginome—the “Baburi Dance” made famous by the dance club at Tominooka High School. They only had two weeks to practice, instead of the usual three months, leading to both excitement and tension as they prepared for their one-time collaborative performance.
Meanwhile, Mrs. GREEN APPLE travels to Shibecha Town, Hokkaido, where they fulfill the dreams of four elementary school children from the town whose school will close this March. This heartfelt gesture is sparked by the wish of their mother, who wanted her children to create lasting memories with their favorite band before they were separated to different schools. The joy on the children’s faces when they meet the band is sure to tug at the heartstrings of viewers. To top off the day, Mrs. GREEN APPLE performs their beloved tune, "Que sera, sera," which leads to heartfelt tears and joyous laughter.
Adding to the emotional narratives of the evening, Takuya Kimura takes on the responsibility of fulfilling yet another touching dream. A grandson decided to submit his 101-year-old grandmother's wish to meet her favorite star, Kimura. The surprise reunion provides not only the grandmother's delight but also entails extravagant experiences such as their first helicopter ride and attending one of Kimura's concerts. It’s yet another glimpse of how the program brings irreplaceable joy and unforgettable moments to fans of all ages.
The special also features the story of a man who has been claiming bad luck for 30 years and wishes to appear on internet news. The program allows him to share his maligned tales, surprising both studio hosts and audience members, including prominent celebrities like actress Suzu Hirose, Riko Yoshioka, and musician Nako Yabuki, who participate to make his dream of being featured on the news come true.
Hosting the event, Akashiya Sanma brings his signature humor and charm, supported by announcer Shinichiro Azumi along with studio guests who celebrate these hopeful stories. The special continues to be a platform not just for entertainment but for the very essence of sharing joy and fulfilling dreams, creating enough warmth to carry viewers through the New Year.
Overall, TBS's "Sanma and Tamao’s New Year’s Gift" proves again to be more than just television; it’s about real people, real dreams, and the magical moments when they come true. With its heartfelt surprises and touching stories, the anniversary show marks yet another significant chapter of the beloved Japanese New Year’s tradition.