2026.3.15 Fuel for the Heart
A new series by Sota Maeda of Karatachi, known for their "double-otaku manzai" that incorporates idol and anime references, has started on Quick Japan Web.
It is said that he will talk about his feelings regarding the graduation of his oshi, Yui Takemoto of Sakurazaka46, as well as his future life as a comedian.
Karatachi's manzai is a style that makes the most of their humanity, creating laughter by linking with reality rather than fiction.
That is precisely why the graduation of his oshi also means he can no longer perform the material they have built up until now.
In addition to the sadness, there is the reality of having to recreate his material, which I think is a situation more painful than one can imagine.
As the words of Maeda-san, who is currently in the midst of that very situation, I felt this series was very valuable.
From the very first installment, it was a very rewarding article to read.
And, I find his way of thinking very charming.
I especially empathized with his reaction when he learned of the graduation and the description of his journey home.
I love the words that Maeda-san releases.
Karatachi is truly funny, so if you live near a theater, please go see their manzai. If not, please try listening to their radio show.
I especially recommend "Karatachi no Saihate no Sensei!".
It is a program distributed on TBS Podcast, and it is the type of radio show that really clicks with the right person. I think it is faster for you to actually listen to it than for me to talk about it.
Speaking of listeners of the show, they have a high need for approval.Following that, I would like to introduce episode #44, where my email was read, as a recommended episode (the email in question is from 31:26).
And, I am really looking forward to Yui Takemoto-chan's future as well. She is a lovable character, and her range of activities is wide, including her aptitude for variety shows and her knowledge of horse racing.
Furthermore, I can feel her skill in hosting and managing the flow, as well as her good personality. I can imagine her playing an active role as an MC or assistant from here on out.
Honestly, I don't usually watch much TV, but
if Yui-chan or Karatachi are on, I feel like watching. That is how much presence they have, and they are people you cannot take your eyes off of.
Today, I would like to introduce a song by Sakurazaka46 where Yui-chan served as the center.
Abura wo Sose! - Sakurazaka46
A coupling song by the BACKS members included in Sakurazaka46's 8th single, "Nansai no Koro ni Modoritai no ka?".
It is an aggressive dance number where the members' energy flares up all at once, as if pouring oil on the emotions they had been storing deep in their hearts, and it is a song packed with the charm of Sakurazaka46.
The members, who usually leave an impression with their bright smiles, show a different side of themselves in this song. Their sharp and powerful performance clearly conveys the high level of each of their dancing abilities.
The high-energy figure they show in this song is so beautiful that it takes your breath away.
Among fans, listening to this song is sometimes called "refueling".
It is a masterpiece that gives you that much energy.
Yui Takemoto-chan will end her activities with Sakurazaka46 following the activities for the 14th single "The growing up train", which will be released on March 11.
Of course, I myself have the desire to see Yui-chan in person and go to a Meet & Greet.
However, I also think that the opportunity should go to the fans who have supported Yui-chan for a long time, so I would like to refrain from going to the venue this time.
In particular, whether or not you can see the moment of graduation in person is a major event in life.
I myself went to the graduation concert of my oshi, Asuka Saito-chan, held up a handwritten message board filled with my passionate feelings, and
shouted my love from the center of Tokyo Dome.

I still love Asuka-chan, and there is no lie in those feelings. I am truly glad I was able to be in that place. I still think that I am glad it was me who witnessed that historic moment.
That is precisely why I hope that opportunity goes to Yui-chan's fans.
And, may Maeda-san be able to meet Yui-chan many times.
