On April 11, 2025, actress Tsuyoshi Ayame made headlines during a live appearance on Fuji TV's 'Pokapoka', where she expressed her admiration for popular comedian Kazutoyo Aijima, a member of the comedy duo 'Anjyashu'. The lively discussion unfolded as Ayame joined fellow actress Hikari Ishida on the show, with the MCs, Osamu Yabe and Aika Kamita, steering the conversation.
When questioned by Yabe about her feelings towards Aijima, Ayame responded enthusiastically, saying, "Yes!" This admission came as a surprise to many, as Ayame revealed her long-standing admiration for Aijima, stating, "I still like him. Of course. I like Anjyashu too, but I especially like Aijima-san." This heartfelt confession was met with laughter and applause from the audience, showcasing the lighthearted atmosphere of the show.
Ayame elaborated on what she finds appealing about Aijima, explaining that it’s his seemingly insincere demeanor that contrasts with his earnestness: "I like how he’s quiet but funny, and how he seems insincere but is actually earnest." This nuanced appreciation for Aijima's character resonated with viewers, highlighting the depth behind her admiration.
The episode was full of playful banter, particularly when free announcer Kamita asked Ayame what she liked about Aijima. Her response sparked a light-hearted moment, as fellow comedian Iwai Yuki from 'Haraichi' chimed in, humorously suggesting that he also fits Ayame's description of Aijima. This drew laughter from both the audience and the other hosts, as they recognized the comedic connection.
Meanwhile, Yabe, who also appeared on the show, received some teasing from Kamita. During the opening segment, she comforted him by asserting, "You’re not a small-time MC," in reference to a discussion about another show. This playful jab set the tone for a fun and engaging episode, where camaraderie among the hosts was evident.
As the conversation progressed, Kamita brought up a segment from a rival morning show, hinting at a discussion about 'small-time MCs'. Yabe quickly caught on, jokingly referencing the popular show 'Ame Talk!' in response. This exchange demonstrated the light-hearted competition that exists among local television shows, where humor is often used to navigate such discussions.
The interaction between Ayame, Aijima, and the MCs provided a glimpse into the dynamic nature of Japanese entertainment, where humor and admiration intertwine. Ayame's candid confession about Aijima not only entertained viewers but also highlighted the affection fans can have for their favorite entertainers.
As the episode wrapped up, it was clear that Ayame's genuine affection for Aijima and the playful banter among the hosts created a memorable moment for the audience. This episode of 'Pokapoka' not only showcased the talents of its guests but also the light-hearted nature of Japanese comedy and entertainment.
In a world where reality TV often overshadows genuine talent, moments like these remind us of the charm and warmth that can be found in live television. The connections made between fans and entertainers, as illustrated by Ayame's heartfelt admiration for Aijima, continue to resonate deeply with audiences.
