Kei Nishikori will make his first variety show appearance since retiring from professional tennis on the November 20 special, Sanma no Manma: Autumn Sanma is Time to Talk.
The program, which airs on the Kantele and Fuji Television networks, marks the inaugural meeting between Nishikori and Sanma Akashiya.
Meeting tennis enthusiast Sanma Akashiya
The broadcast, scheduled for 9:00 p.m. JST on November 20, features a conversation between Nishikori and Akashiya, who is well-known for his passion for the sport. During the filming, Akashiya praised Nishikori, stating, “You have come. I want to welcome you with applause. You protected the Japanese tennis world.”
The program follows Nishikori as he reflects on his achievements. According to the production notes, the conversation takes an unexpected turn when Nishikori displays a playful side that surprises the host, leading to a reaction from Akashiya. The segment also covers the challenges of his career, his future plans, and a “dream” that Nishikori hopes Akashiya can help him realize.
Diverse guest lineup for the special
The two-hour program, running until 10:52 p.m. JST, includes a variety of guests from the Japanese entertainment industry. Actors Kentaro Sakaguchi and Sho Kasamasa are scheduled to represent the drama kiDnap GAME, while Ko Shibasaki and Eiji Akaso will appear from the streaming film Yomei Ichinen, Otoko wo Kau.
The episode also marks the first joint appearance of the group CUTIE STREET with Akashiya. The group received the “67th Japan Record Awards Newcomer Award” late last year. The Okinawa-based rock band ORANGE RANGE will appear alongside the comedy duo Mayurika, following their appearance in a modern version of the band’s hit song, "Ikenai Taiyo."
Sanma no Manma airs November 20 on Kantele and Fuji Television
Sanma no Manma: Autumn Sanma is Time to Talk is produced for a nationwide audience on the Kantele and Fuji Television network. The special is set to air on Friday, November 20, beginning at 9:00 p.m. JST. The guest list includes Nishikori, Sakaguchi, Kasamasa, Shibasaki, Akaso, ORANGE RANGE members HIROKI, RYO, and NAOTO, Mayurika, and CUTIE STREET.
Keep reading
