Tokyo, Japan – April 21, 2025 – After more than three decades on air, the popular Japanese talk variety show Downtown DX will officially come to an end. The final broadcast is scheduled for June 26, 2025, according to an official announcement made by Yomiuri TV, the show’s production company.
A Legacy of Laughter Since 1993
Downtown DX first premiered in October 1993, hosted by the legendary comedy duo Downtown, consisting of Hitoshi Matsumoto and Masatoshi Hamada. Known for their sharp wit, dynamic chemistry, and ability to draw candid conversations from a wide range of celebrity guests, the show became a staple in Japanese late-night television.
Over the years, Downtown DX featured thousands of guests from various industries, including entertainment, sports, and politics. Its format, combining studio discussions with humorous video segments, contributed to its long-standing success.
The End of an Era
The decision to end the program comes amid significant changes for the hosts. Matsumoto announced a hiatus from public activities in early 2024, following personal and legal issues, while Hamada took a health-related break starting in April 2025.
Since Matsumoto’s hiatus, Hamada continued hosting the show solo. Recently, a rotating cast of guest MCs has been filling in due to Hamada’s absence. Yomiuri TV stated that both hosts expressed concern over the disruption caused to staff and viewers, leading to the final decision.
“Considering the ongoing circumstances and with respect to the wishes conveyed through their agency, we have made the difficult decision to bring the program to a close,” said the network in a public statement.
No Word Yet on a Successor
There is currently no official word on what program will replace Downtown DX in its Thursday night time slot. However, Yomiuri TV has promised to deliver updates in the coming weeks.
The final episode is expected to be a retrospective celebration of the show’s 32-year journey, featuring classic clips, behind-the-scenes moments, and special guest appearances.
