Question from a Reader:
It seems that there are a lot of changes in the entertainment industry. Even though Nakai-san and the Downtown duo are no longer on television, the industry continues as if nothing has happened, which makes me feel a sense of impermanence. I never imagined that a day would come when Bali Para would end. What do you
all think?
The Impermanence of the Entertainment Industry and What Lies Behind It
Recently, I had a lively conversation with a friend about the volatility of the entertainment world. When Nakai-san and Downtown disappeared from television, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of impermanence, especially when I considered the influence they once had. When I watched them on TV, it felt like they would be around forever.
The Reality of Self-Proclaimed Celebrities
Recent online information suggests that there are tens of thousands of self-proclaimed celebrities in Japan. Among them, only about 500 can actually make a living from it. It’s reported that there are over 6,000 members in Yoshimoto Kogyo alone. Hearing this made me realize the harshness of the entertainment industry once again. Despite the efforts of many to support comedy and acting, only a handful achieve success, which makes it a truly tough world. Looking back, when I was working part-time at a judicial scrivener’s office, I encountered various people and had many conversations. One day, a client I happened to visit shared that he once aspired to enter the entertainment industry in his youth. He had auditioned multiple times but ultimately gave up on his dream and chose a regular job. The expression on his face at that time was a mix of slight regret and satisfaction with his current life.
The Risks of Accidents and Illness
Since real human beings are active in the entertainment industry, accidents and illnesses can lead to untimely deaths. Experiencing sudden farewells, like those with Miho Nakayama and Ken Shimura, is painful for everyone. Their presence felt so normal that the sense of loss is immeasurable. Personally, when I hear unfortunate news about a favorite celebrity, I feel as if it somehow impacts my own life. People often experience a range of emotions through those close to them.
Conclusion
The impermanence of the entertainment industry seems to offer us some lessons. Since nothing lasts forever, I feel it’s important to cherish the present moment. Thinking about this, I intend to continue pursuing my own path. What do you all think about the volatility of the entertainment industry? If you have memories of certain celebrities or stories of how they influenced you, please share them in the comments.
