Actor and singer Tetsuya Takeda, aged 75, appeared on the popular TV talk show "Tetsuko's Room" on March 10, 2025, to talk about his experiences with Aikido and reflect on his close friendship with the late actor Toshiyuki Nishida, who passed away last October.
During his appearance, Takeda shared insights from his 10 years of practicing Aikido, which he began at the age of 65 after the conclusion of his iconic role as Kinpachi Sensei. "It's quite hard to practice Aikido, especially with junior high and high school students who bounce back immediately after being thrown," he laughed, admitting how challenging it can be to keep up with much younger opponents. Nonetheless, Takeda appreciates the opportunity to learn from his dedicated instructors.
His studies of Aikido have not only pushed him physically but have also transformed how he engages with his family, particularly his wife. "Since starting Aikido, my responses to my wife have become sharper," he joked. "My instructor told me, 'Takeda-kun, you must never go against your wife.' It's as if I'm learning to approach domestic life like Aikido—always willing to learn and adapt," he added with warmth.
During the show, Takeda reminisced about Nishida, with whom he had shared many moments over the years. They co-starred together on the variety show "Migoro! Tabegoro! Warai Goro!" since 1976 and had developed a deep friendship, referring to each other affectionately as 'Tetsu-yan' and 'Nishi-yan.' "He was like an older brother to me," Takeda reflected, sharing fond memories of their time spent with their families, often dining together at upscale restaurants.
Takeda humorously recounted how he once tried to treat Nishida to dinner as thanks for his support during Takeda's career rise with the hit series "Kinpachi Sensei." "After I felt I was finally making it, I wanted to treat him. But he firmly responded, 'I've been becoming successful too!' after his song "Moshimo Piano ga Hiketa Nara" became a major hit. We ended up enjoying our meal, where I once again found myself being treated," he said, smiling at the cherished memories.
This fond reflection caught the attention of show host Tetsuko Kuroyanagi, who cherished the bond between the two actors. The atmosphere became poignant, as Takeda shared stories about his friendship and the deep impact Nishida had on his life and career.
"Nishida always encouraged me by saying things like, 'This is how you should approach it. You're not wrong here, but maybe think about this section,'" Takeda recalled, his eyes sparkling with appreciation for the guidance he received from his friend.
Beyond his memories of Nishida, Takeda urged viewers to embrace change and challenges through disciplines like Aikido. "Aikido teaches us how to deal with adversities gracefully. It’s all about how we respond to conflicts, even love our enemies as they emerge before us," Takeda recounted, echoing philosopher Uchidag’s words, which initially inspired him to undertake the martial art.
Nearing the end of the segment, Takeda expressed gratitude for his life's learning experiences through both Aikido and his interactions with those he loves. He mused, "There are many important principles to learn from household duties—just as there are from martial arts. Women possess their techniques and wisdom when it involves managing homes, which is something I have been lucky to learn. It’s like another form of discipline." His reflection revealed his respect for domestic work, likening it to martial arts training.
Takeda’s sincere sentiments about love, learning, and friendship resonate deeply, serving as valuable reminders about life's fragility and the importance of nurturing connections. His dynamic exchange and heartfelt tributes on "Tetsuko's Room" not only provided insight but inspired viewers to appreciate their own relationships and challenges.
Before concluding the broadcast, Takeda promised to continue learning from both his Aikido practice and his wife, embracing the ethos of being open to guidance and growth. "I am committed to learning continuously from her," he stated with enthusiasm. Citing Aikido as more than just martial training, Takeda reaffirmed its principles as metaphors for life's journeys.