It was announced on March 5th that actor Naoto Fujiki will be the MC of the travel information variety show "Asa Da! Nama Desu Tabi Salad" (ABC TV/TV Asahi, Saturday 8pm). Together with Nao Matsushita, he will take on the role of Masateru Kanda, who led the show for 27 years and 6 months until September last year.
"Asa Da! Nama Desu Tabi Salad" is a popular long-running program that began in April 1993 with three hosts, Kusano Hitoshi, Mukai Aki, and Tanaka Yoshitake, and will celebrate its 33rd anniversary this April. It offers a variety of travel styles, including recommendations for delicious food from all over Japan, hot springs, and recommended weekend spots.
Fujiki commented, "I was surprised because it was an offer I never expected. Considering the history and importance of the show, I didn't think I was up to the task, but this year marks my 30th anniversary since my debut, so I thought it would be a blessing to be given the opportunity to take on the challenge of being a live MC for the first time, so I accepted."
Addressing the viewers, he commented, "When Kanda Masateru graduated, he said, 'I never tried my best. I just did it because I was passionate about it.' I too am passionate about it, and I want to have as much fun as I can as a member of Tabi Salad. I hope that the viewers continue to enjoy it, and that it makes you want to go on a trip."
Matsushita, who will be serving as MC with Fujiki, said, "I have worked with him on several dramas, but working together as MC feels a different kind of tension (laughs). I hope to be able to ask Fujiki for advice when necessary, be able to talk to him freely about all sorts of things, and do my best to help create warmth for the new Tabi Salad family. This is the start of a new Tabi Salad! We look forward to working with you."
Producer Yamashita Koji expressed his expectations for Fujiki, saying, "He has an engaging personality and a refreshing smile that leaves an impression, but what new sides of him will he show us? I can't help but be excited!"
Fujiki will appear on the show starting from the April 5th broadcast.
