It was announced on July 31st on the Nippon Television information variety show "Hirunandesu!" that Yokoyama Yu of the popular group "SUPER EIGHT" will serve as a charity runner for "24 Hour TV 48 - Love Saves the Earth", which will be broadcast on August 30th and 31st.
Yokoyama commented, "When I was a child, I lived in financial uncertainty. I think it's meaningful for people to know that there are still many children in similar circumstances today through my running."
He continued, "Of course, I don't think it's presumptuous to think that I can change society by my own power alone. But if my running can be of even a little help to children who need support right now, and if it can resonate even a little with the hearts of everyone watching, then nothing would make me happier. I will run as hard as I can so that my feelings will reach everyone. I hope you will support me."
This year's charity marathon has launched a fundraising campaign for "Marathon Children's Support Fund," inspired by Yokoyama's vision. People can participate in the fundraising campaign by clicking on the program's official website or by scanning the QR code displayed on the runners' screens while they are running. All donations will be used to help children in need.
This year's 24-Hour TV will have the theme "Tell me about yourself," and will be broadcast from the main venue, Ryogoku Kokugikan (Sumida Ward, Tokyo). The general hosts will be Ueda Shinya, Hatori Shinichi, and announcer Miura Asami. Charity partners will be King & Prince, Jun Shison Jun, Nagashima Kazushige, Hamabe Minami, Hikawa, and Yasuko. The program will air from 6:30 PM on August 30th to 8:54 PM on the 31st.
