Japanese pop group timelesz, known for its vibrant performances and dynamic members, marked a significant turning point this year with the introduction of new members through the 'timelesz project -AUDITION-'—a bold initiative following their rebranding from Sexy Zone. The excitement surrounding this transition has captivated fans and onlookers alike, as the process not only identified new talents from over 18,000 entries but also showcased the enduring spirit of teamwork and friendship among the original members.
The auditions, which were heavily documented and aired on Netflix, culminated on February 5, 2025, when five new members were selected: Takuto Teras, Yoshitaka Hara, Shosei Hashimoto, Juto Ianao, and Daiki Soga. Their official announcement followed quickly, being just two days after the auditions concluded, which generated significant media buzz and heightened anticipation among fans.
Days following the announcement, the excitement of the new members was palpable. “Today, we have gained companions, friends, and family! It’s pure joy to be starting this new chapter together,” stated Fuma Kikuchi, one of the original and now leading members of timelesz during his first interview with media outlet MORE. He emphasized the sentiment of camaraderie and the endless possibilities the new lineup has to offer.
Kikuchi, who has assumed the role of the 'chief examiner' for the new members, also reflects deeply on what qualities were pivotal during the selection process. He noted, “The core factor for deciding on Takuto was his unique qualities complementing our group dynamic. He brings depth and technical finesse, making him indispensable. We believe he, along with our new members, will help us grow and evolve.”
On March 15, 2025, the excitement of the new lineup takes another leap as timelesz prepares to air their special segment on Fuji TV titled 'Entertainers Seriously Consider! Dokkiri GP Fuma Kikuchi and timelesz Paimamire SP.' This special will feature all eight members as they engage with fans and participate in the comical 'Dokkiri GP project audition,' where their humor and personalities will shine.
The show is built around light-hearted pranks targeted at the five new members who, much to their surprise, are mostly inexperienced with ‘dokkiri’ (prank) culture. The comedic tension will hinge on Kikuchi and his fellow original members, Shori Sato and So Matsushima, as they seek to gauge which one of the new recruits displays the best reactions under pressure.
Interestingly, this comedic venture has been painstakingly planned following ten months of intense auditions, during which 18,922 hopefuls vied for their chance to join the popular group. The quick intertwining of trust and laughter is evident as timelesz prepares to prank its newest additions. Kikuchi, serving as the chief strategist, emphasized the lighter spirit of the show by indicating the prank, “We’ll be challenging them to guess premium ingredients hidden beneath silver lids, but don’t be fooled. When they lift the lids, they’ll be on the receiving end of our pie bazooka surprise!”
With their unique concept, fans can expect both hilarity and genuine moments as the newest members grapple with both dodging pies and their debut as entertainers. It’s this duality of chaos and connection the group hopes to showcase, illuminating their adaptability and playfulness through the inevitable scheme pitfalls.
Post-audition, the energy among the new group members remains effervescent. Teras, Yara, Hashimoto, Ianao, and Soga each expressed their joy and enthusiasm about solidifying themselves within the history of timelesz. Reflecting on his experience, Takuto noted, “Now I feel like I’m part of something bigger; something special,” showing the growth mentality embraced by this new formation.
Prominently, the original members’ reactions to the pranks will also be pivotal content during the broadcast. Kikuchi and his cohorts are well aware of the pressures their new friends must navigate as they grapple with the show's whimsical and unpredictable nature. “The idea of putting them under such pressure quickly brought us all closer, and now we can create countless legendary moments together,” Kikuchi shared, sentimentally expressing the deep bonds forming among timelesz members.
Through all their recent success, timelesz look forward not just to laughter and entertainment, but also the serious exploration of what it means to collaborate across different dimensions. Their upcoming shows will reflect not just on the group's talent, but on the broader experience of building new friendships and adventures. Don’t miss their highly anticipated airing on March 15, showcasing fun and silly antics, but also the heartfelt connections forming among the newly united family.
The zeitgeist invoking timelesz is tempered with genuine excitement and youthful vigor as they stride confidently toward the future. With their upcoming collaboration underlined with undeniable character and depth, one thing is for sure: fans are set to witness what the massive transition from the past will mean for this new collective.