Yumi Kawada, 41, bid farewell to her role as a regular on the Nippon TV show 'Hirunandesu!' on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, after a two-year stint that saw her become a beloved figure on the program. Known for her cheerful demeanor and infectious spirit, Kawada concluded her journey with a heartfelt message during the show's final segment.
On March 19, 2025, Kawada announced her graduation from 'Hirunandesu!' during an episode, marking the end of her time as a Wednesday regular. In her last appearance, she reflected on her experience, stating, "It felt like a very short time, but I was welcomed like I had been here all along, and it really was a fun Wednesday." Her departure was celebrated with a special project that looked back at her memorable moments on the show, particularly her participation in the 'Hey! Prohibited Shopping' segment.
Throughout her tenure, Kawada became notorious for her frequent use of the phrase "Hey!" During 19 appearances, she uttered the phrase a staggering 303 times, which led to a reduction of nearly 88,240 yen in goods during the shopping segment. The show’s hosts organized a fun quiz segment that highlighted various instances when she used the phrase, allowing fans to engage and reminisce about those special moments.
Kawada didn't just entertain viewers; she formed bonds with her fellow cast members, making her exit all the more bittersweet. Akimoto Chinatsu, a fellow Wednesday regular who had grown close to Kawada, expressed her admiration saying, "Kawada was like a sister to me. She brought everything together on Wednesdays, and her absence will surely be felt by all of us." The camaraderie shared among the hosts was evident as they celebrated her unique contributions to the show.
During her farewell speech, Kawada expressed hope for her successor, wishing for them to strengthen the bonds built during her time on the show. "I truly believe that the new person will make Wednesdays even more vibrant," she said, eliciting tears from her colleagues.
MC Kiyotaka Nanbara also took a moment to express gratitude towards Kawada for her dedication, particularly noting her ability to balance her career and motherhood. "Thank you for coming every week despite the challenges of parenting. We hope to see you return, whether for work or just to join us for a laugh."
Kawada's personal life has been busy as well. In October 2019, she married a composer, marking a new chapter in her life. She gave birth to her first son in August 2020 and welcomed her second child, a daughter, in June 2022. The transition to motherhood, as well as her commitment to her professional endeavors, showcased her ability to juggle multiple responsibilities.
Since joining 'Hirunandesu!' as a regular on Wednesdays in April 2023, Kawada had become a familiar face to audiences, captivating them with her friendly interactions and light-hearted humor. Fans will undoubtedly miss her regular appearances, particularly her signature catchphrase, which became a delightful staple of the show.
As she signed off, Kawada assured viewers, "I'll practice and return even more powered up!" With a bright smile, she left her mark on the show, and it’s clear that her journey is far from over. Her vibrant presence will linger, and many will be waiting eagerly to see what comes next for this talented announcer.
