On October 14, NHK announced that Haruka Ayase, Hiroiki Ariyoshi, Mio Imada , and announcer Naoko Suzuki will serve as hosts for the 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen Eve. Koike Akihisa, head of the NHK headquarters, explained the reason for choosing Ayase, Ariyoshi, and Imada, saying, "They are the three most beloved people in Japanese living rooms right now."
This will be Ayase's fourth time hosting the Kohaku Uta Gassen, following her appearances in 2013, 2015, and 2019, Ariyoshi's third time in a row, following appearances in 2023 and 2024, Imada's first time, and Suzuki's second time in a row, following her appearance in 2024.
Koike expressed her expectations, saying, "Ayase, who has created some touching scenes at past Red and White Song Festivals, the mature Ariyoshi, who creates a warm atmosphere with just a casual comment, and Imada, who brings energy to viewers with her fresh smile. And we will also be joined by announcer Suzuki Naoko, who is a bit of a crybaby. I wonder what kind of atmosphere will be created at the NHK Hall on New Year's Eve...I can't wait."
The 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen will be broadcast on December 31st from 7:20pm to 11:45pm (with news interruptions) under the theme "Connecting, Connecting, New Year's Eve."
