On January 1, 2025, viewers can enjoy the annual traditional New Year’s broadcast titled "Watanabe Naomi and Naito Sho's New Year's Special Broadcast 2025" on ABEMA, starting at 11 PM JST. This highly anticipated event has become synonymous with the New Year celebrations for fans of Japanese entertainment, featuring engaging games, comedic segments, and special appearances.
The show will retain its unique charm by continuing popular segments from previous broadcasts, focusing on a competition known as "The English Prohibition Bowling Challenge." This segment has captured viewers' hearts since its inception on the show "Shimura & Tsuru's Dangerous Fellowship" back in 2001. The premise requires participants to refrain from speaking any English during the competition, resulting in humorous antics and unexpected language slips.
Joining forces with Watanabe Naomi is her long-time partner Naito Sho, who brings his signature humor and lively presence to the mix. This year's edition will also feature renowned guests, including actor Kazama Shunsuke and dancer-actor Sekiguchi Mendii, who are set to participate as extraordinaries. The excitement behind their surprise involvement has raised eyebrows on set, prompting reactions like, "Why are they joining us?" indicating their willingness to step out of their usual roles to entertain the audience.
Fans will witness not only the teammates of Watanabe and Naito but also special competitions as they aim for strikes and spares to earn rewards from various beautiful women, which has been a highlight of this segment. With each rule violation resulting in penalties, viewers can anticipate all sorts of shenanigans, as contestants push their limits for the sake of entertainment.
Host Yamazaki Ryota, part of the popular comedy duo Nankai Candies, will lead the festivities, guiding the audience through the fun-filled challenges and ensuring the atmosphere stays lively. Viewers may recall this familiar face from previous editions of the show, adding to the sense of continuity and joy.
Acting as the opener for the grand event is none other than New Japan Pro Wrestling's president and star, Tanahashi Hiroshi, who’ll perform the ceremonial first roll. His participation promises to add a star-studded layer to the show, especially as he approaches the end of his illustrious career, with retirement planned for January 2026.
Notably, "Watanabe Naomi and Naito Sho's New Year's Special Broadcast 2025" pays homage to the legacy of "Shimura & Tsuru's Dangerous Fellowship," which had been running successfully for almost 20 years. Reflecting this long-standing tradition, the show aims to deliver new surprises and preserve the spirit of joy associated with the New Year festivities.
The broadcast will not only be available on ABEMA, but also as condensed highlights on television through TV-Asahi on January 3, ensuring fans won’t miss any memories or contrary antics. Given the dynamic nature and nostalgia evoked by these yearly specials, there's high anticipation surrounding this continuation.
With this upcoming show, audiences can expect plenty of laughter, entertainment, and cheer. The comedic chops and friendships made on set contribute to the show's unique allure, making it a staple of Japanese New Year's festivities. Whether it's engaging with beloved celebrities, participating in outrageous games, or enjoying the hilarity of blunders made during competitions, this broadcast promises to bring joy and excitement to homes across Japan.
The New Year’s special serves as more than just entertainment; it creates cherished memories for families and friends gathering to ring in the New Year together. Don’t miss your chance to catch all the thrills of this iconic celebration!
For those eager to catch up on the tradition or see what’s new, the replay of last year's event will also be made available starting December 16, 2024, which is another opportunity for newcomers to experience the magic of this unique comedic spectacle.
So mark your calendars, prepare the popcorn, and gather your friends and family to celebrate the New Year with the wild antics and heartfelt moments only Watanabe Naomi and Naito Sho can deliver!
