JGT judges GACKT, Alice Hirose, Takayuki Yamada and Masatoshi Hamada. Courtesy of Fremantle.
Fremantle, Syco Entertainment and Yoshimoto Kogyo today announce a brand-new adaption of the world-famous Got Talent franchise: Japan’s Got Talent – the first time the format will be made in Japan.
Licensed to Yoshimoto Kogyo from Fremantle and Syco, Japan’s Got Talent will be produced locally by Yoshimoto Kogyo and broadcasted by Abema TV. This latest adaption will give aspiring Japanese performers the chance to impress a panel of celebrity judges and a global audience with their talent. With a host of weird and wonderful performances, there are no limits as to what acts will appear as they all vie to win the ultimate talent show.
Japan’s Got Talent will air in February 2023. The deal was brokered by Fremantle’s Katsuhiko Waza – SVP Distribution Japan, Paul Ridley – SEVP, International Distribution and Stephen Flint – Director of Operations, Global Entertainment Production.
Jens Richter, CEO of Fremantle International says: “We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Yoshimoto Kogyo to produce Japan’s Got Talent for the first time ever. Got Talent is a beloved global sensation that has entertained millions and we are sure that the show will delight Japanese audiences as it has so many others around the world. We can’t wait for Abema TV to broadcast this brilliant new series.”
Stephen Flint, Director of Operations, Global Entertainment Production commented: “It’s always an exciting adventure when a new territory comes on board for a format as successful as Got Talent. We are looking forward to collaborating with Yoshimoto and Abema to bring Japan’s Got Talent to life and discover the best talent that Japan has to offer.”
The panel of judges includes legendary comedian, actor, and singer from comedy duo – Downtown; Masatoshi Hamada, who brings his infectious energy to the screen. He is accompanied by fellow judges: actress Alice Hirose, musician GACKT as well as actor and producer Takayuki Yamada.
Akihiko Okamoto, CEO of Yoshimoto Kogyo commented: “On our 110th anniversary, we are thrilled to announce that Yoshimoto Kogyo will be producing the Japanese version of Got Talent, one of the most beloved talent shows in the world. We hope that many people will enjoy watching the show on Abema TV. Please join us in witnessing undiscovered talent launch to stardom in Japan and beyond.”
Got Talent is the talent show with NO age limit, NO talent restrictions and NO cultural boundaries. Acts ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous – in fact, anyone doing anything – are given the chance to win the hearts of a nation. At stake: a life-changing opportunity. Since its launch in 2006, this award-winning family show has been breaking audience ratings records everywhere and is now one of the most successful and progressively expanding entertainment brands in the business. Created by Simon Cowell and co-owned by Syco Entertainment and Fremantle, Got Talent has been broadcast in 194 countries, with original versions in 72 countries and has been watched by over one billion viewers worldwide. Fremantle is the global distributor of both the finished tape and the Got Talent format.
