Question from a reader:
Who are the celebrities that most people across Japan would say they at least know by name and face? Specifically, please share names of individuals that people aged 20 to 70 have likely seen on television, in newspapers, magazines, or online.
Who Are the Celebrities Everyone Knows?
Recently, during a conversation with friends, we discussed the question,
“Who are the celebrities that almost everyone in Japan knows?” When it comes to names that span from our generation to those in their 70s, Tamori-san’s name inevitably comes up. His presence feels almost like a national treasure of Japan.
The Charm of Tamori-san
Tamori-san is best known for “Waratte Iitomo!” and his humor on that show is truly addictive. I have fond memories of watching that program with my family and laughing together. I especially enjoyed the moments when he would give light-hearted jabs to guests. That unique timing is something no one else can replicate. One day, while working part-time at a judicial scrivener’s office, a colleague was talking about Tamori-san. I was struck by how their face lit up when discussing him. That smile seemed to embody Tamori-san’s influence.
Other Celebrities
Of course, it’s not just Tamori-san; there are many other well-known celebrities. For example, Akashiya Sanma, Matsumoto Hitoshi, and more recently, the members of Arashi are also widely recognized. It’s fascinating to see how these individuals have garnered support across generations. However, when the name Yajima-san came up, I found myself a bit puzzled. The moment I heard the name, I thought, “Wait, who is that?” This highlights an interesting aspect: recognition can vary across different generations and regions.
In Conclusion
Talking about celebrities brings back memories from my own life. Their presence offers common ground for conversations that span generations. If you have stories or memorable episodes about your favorite celebrities, I would love to hear them in the comments. I’m excited to see what interesting stories emerge!
