The anticipation surrounding the Timelesz Project’s audition finally reached its peak on October 15, as the results were announced following the final performance held at the Tokyo Garden Theatre. The idol group, which underwent rebranding from Sexy Zone, showcased their awareness of fans and the significance of community within their music industry.
During the audition, 1,892 applicants were pared down to eight finalists who performed before approximately 2,000 enthusiastic fans. They delivered two songs, showcasing not only their singing capabilities but the hard work and determination they invested throughout the audition process. According to the reports from Nikkan Sports, the final results were streamed live on Netflix, marking a historic moment for the group and its fanbase.
The final performance included two segments. For the first segment, finalists were divided evenly between two teams, known as the Red and Blue teams, performing the newly penned track ”Rock This Party.” The eight finalists—Takuya Teranishi, Yoshitaka Hara, Roi Hamakawa, Masaki Hashimoto, Shuto Inomata, Taiki Shinozuka, Hiromu Honda, and Noa Azai—brought their best foot forward, demonstrating their growth and synergy as they prepared for this pivotal moment. Following this, they performed the classic Timelesz hit, “RUN,” which has become synonymous with the group’s identity.
Reflecting on the audition, Kaito Kikuchi, one of the existing group members, shared his thoughts: “Five years from now, I hope I never forget these past ten months. This moment was too precious for me.” Acknowledging their emotional connection due to shared experiences, he noted the increased communication and bonding established with the finalists and voiced his excitement about their future as part of Timelesz.
His sentiments were echoed by fellow group member Shori Sato, who remarked, “Standing on stage here again today, I feel the support of everyone around. Making these tough decisions about new members has truly been challenging.” Sato emphasized the importance of collective support from fans, stating: “We will continue walking forward, holding onto our sentiments as we proceed.”
Matsushima also spoke passionately about integrating new members, noting the necessity of selecting individuals whom fans can connect with. “It is our goal to bring forward members who resonate with fans’ expectations and become part of their success story,” he shared.
What made this audition particularly poignant were heartfelt moments shared among contestants. Prior to commencement, Taki Yamane, who was eliminated during earlier rounds, made a surprise appearance to encourage his friends on stage. The spirit of friendship and support was palpable as former contestants expressed their pride and excitement for their peers.
“You all look fantastic!” Yamane shouted, bringing tears to the eyes of many as he congratulated them on reaching such heights. Another former contestant, Tomoki Nishiyama, backed him up, encouraging them to relish the moment. Their emotional support bolstered the finalists as they stepped onto stage.
The eight finalists each expressed their joy and experience through the audition. Hamakawa, aged 19, described the process as life-changing. “I felt I could truly enjoy myself surrounded by trusted friends. Getting to perform ‘RUN’ meant everything to me,” he noted, emphasizing the depth of his connection to the song.
Thirty-year-old Teranishi also expressed gratitude for the experience, asserting, “Not everyone will agree with our decisions, but I believe we delivered the best possible performance we had.” Each finalist brought their distinct energy and charm, demonstrating what they learned from one another during months of rehearsal.
This audition is recognized not just as the end of one competitive chapter but as the beginning of what appears to be promising careers and friendships moving forward. The finalists seek to embody the ideals of teamwork, perseverance, and emotional engagement as they establish themselves within this storied group.
The atmosphere post-performance was one of celebration and anticipation for what’s to come. Ninety minutes after the results aired, fans and team members alike commended the growth the finalists displayed and how their shared experiences created bonds likely to endure long after this momentous audition.
With the official announcement of the new members made, the legacy of Timelesz continues, carefully shaped by both seasoned and budding idols nurtured through the audition’s rewarding process.