In the West, actors promote movies on talk shows. In Japan, actors survive variety shows. To be a top star, you must be willing to fall into a pit of foam blocks, eat strange food on camera, or be humiliated by a comedian. This breaks the "fourth wall" of celebrity, making stars feel accessible and human.
For decades, Japan’s "Soft Power" was a quiet force, often relegated to niche hobbyist circles. But as we move through 2025, the narrative has shifted completely. From the record-breaking success of historical epics like In the West, actors promote movies on talk shows