Japan Mourns the Passing of Hiroshi Kume, Iconic TV Host and News Anchor, at 81
It has been revealed that Hiroshi Kume, a freelance announcer and master host who captivated the nation, passed away peacefully on January 1st, New Year's Day, at the age of 81 due to lung cancer. This news has prompted an outpouring of grief from many. Kume joined TBS as an announcer in 1967. He hosted national programs such as “Pittashi Kan-Kan” and “The Best Ten,” where he formed a celebrated duo with Tetsuko Kuroyanagi. His lighthearted delivery and exceptional hosting skills earned him immense popularity. Particularly on “Pittashi Kan-Kan,” his unique title call, among other elements, helped create a show beloved by viewers for many years. After leaving TBS, he became the main caster for TV Asahi’s “News Station” in October 1985. For approximately 18 years, until March 2004, he delivered “news understandable even to middle schoolers” on what was essentially a hard-hitting news program, sometimes incorporating humor, sometimes critically challenging authority. His journalistic ...