Question from a Reader:
Was Masahiro Nakai a national star? Watching his recent activities makes me feel a bit complicated.
The Complexity of Masahiro Nakai as a National Star
In conversations with friends, the topic of Masahiro Nakai often comes up. Since I’ve followed him for a long time, I find myself pondering what it really means to be called a
“national star.” Indeed, his presence as a member of SMAP was remarkable, and his work as a host and in variety shows has left a strong impression. However, observing his recent activities gives me a somewhat mixed feeling. For instance, there are moments in the shows he appears on where his character seems to lose some of its vibrancy. It feels like the sparkle he once had has diminished a bit. Additionally, considering the significant influence of Johnny’s Agency, I wonder if we can truly say he became a national star solely based on his own talent.
Memorable Episodes
The first time I consciously noticed Nakai was in elementary school. There was a cooking segment on “SMAP×SMAP” that I watched with friends. I remember him being clumsy in the kitchen, which was hilarious, and we all laughed heartily. From that time on, I realized how much I loved his sense of humor. However, recently I’ve felt that the content of his talks in the shows he appears on has become somewhat repetitive, leaving me a bit unsatisfied. I can’t help but wish to see more of that unique comedic perspective that he used to bring—perhaps it’s a bit of a selfish desire.
What Do You Think?
What are your thoughts on Masahiro Nakai? Please share your memories or feelings about his activities and character in the comments! I’d love for us to engage more in discussions about the comedy and variety shows we enjoy.
