Japanese Unscripted TV Trends 2024: Music, Nostalgia, and the Generation Gap
By Chris Weatherspoon
Non-scripted programming often serves as a snapshot of contemporary culture and the changes taking place in society, and Japan is no exception. Breakthrough Now Media asked experts at major Japanese broadcaster TV Asahi to share their perspectives on what's driving the current evolution of Japan’s non-scripted programming landscape. Here are some trends to watch in 2024:
Singing Shows Surge
Are you craving more music? Then you’re in luck! Miyuki NAKASONE of TV Asahi notes a rise in music-focused content. “There has been a recent increase in singing shows, including live shows featuring many artists and shows featuring specific artists,” says NAKASONE. In fact, another Japanese broadcaster even plans to launch a show to rival TV Asahi’s long-running “Music Station," which is currently the only live music program aired by a broadcast network.
TV Asahi’s <Music Station> is currently the only live music show airing on broadcast tv but competition is on the way in 2024.
Mind the Gen Gap
Aside from singing shows, NAKASONE also notices a trend in unscripted shows capitalizing on Japan’s aging population by highlighting the differences between generations. “These shows center around how people kept in touch 30 years ago [before smartphones] or how people watched programs on tape rather than through streaming services,” says NAKASONE. She notes that these programs serve as trips down memory lane for aging Gen Xers while also quizzing younger viewers on pop culture references to highlight the generation gap.
TV Asahi's <Ninchido> [ニンチド] is pop culture history for some, nostalgia for others, but entertainment for everyone.
Upcoming Virtual Pitch with TV Asahi
Want to be the first to discover the hottest new Japanese content scheduled to be released in 2024? Don't miss the Virtual Pitch that we are hosting for TV Asahi on April 24th! Get a front-row seat to their latest programming and explore potential collaborations. Learn more and register to attend here: TV Asahi Virtual Pitch. Until then, check out the programs mentioned in this article!