Actor Mayo Kawasaki (62) will appear on the long-running variety show "Shinkonsan Irasshai!" (ABC TV/TV Asahi, Sunday 12:55 PM) on November 16th. Kawasaki, who has been a hot topic on variety shows every day, experienced divorce and court cases, and hit rock bottom in life, will talk about the happiness he has found in marriage after turning 60.
The broadcast on this day was a one-hour special, and featured Kawasaki and his wife, cooking researcher Kanon (41), with the theme of "a major turnaround from rock bottom in life."
The two first met 13 years ago. Kanon initially had a harsh impression of Kawasaki due to his image on TV talk shows. However, her impression changed after seeing him in a volunteer activity and seeing Kawasaki's unexpected side at a dinner party. Then, when Kawasaki faced a major challenge, Kanon's dedicated support greatly advanced their relationship.
However, his wife's mother strongly opposed the idea, telling him to stop. This untold story will reveal how Kawasaki overcame this adversity and obstacles and how he gained trust.
Kawasaki's 90-year-old mother also made an appearance. She has continued to support her son, who moved to Tokyo 48 years ago as a second-year junior high school student. She looked back on the time of his debut and spoke of Kawasaki's true nature, as only a mother can know it. After the program was filmed, the couple visited his parents' home to give his mother a surprise. She was moved to tears by a letter of gratitude from her son, who wrote, "I caused you a lot of worry in the tough world of showbiz, but you still believed in me."
Kawasaki explained her reason for appearing on the show, saying, "It's a show that mothers love, so I really wanted to take part. My two mothers are very happy, so it's like I'm doing something to show my filial piety." She continued, "There's a 21-year age difference between us, and I'm 62! I want older men out there to not give up and be brave. Of course, there's a generation gap, but I want people to see us overcome that and live life to the fullest with smiles on our faces."
