Judges for King of Conte 2025 Final
The lineup for the judging panel of the King of Conte 2025 final has been confirmed, with last year’s esteemed judges returning to their roles. Certified television personalities from Japan’s comedy scene will once again deliberate over the sharpest stand-up and sketch performances of the season. The panel includes:
- Iizuka of Tokyo 03
- Kotoge of Baikingu
- Akiyama of Robert
- Yamauchi of Kamaitachi
- Jiro of Shisonnu
These five judges will be joined by the dynamic energy and experience of seasoned comedians who have become synonymous with the King of Conte finals, ensuring a balanced and insightful evaluation of each act as the competition moves toward its dramatic finale.
Finalists Competing in 2025
Ten acts have earned their places in the final round, bringing a wide range of styles from high-energy character bits to tight, performance-driven sketches. The finalists are:
- Aoi-iro No. 1
- Ultra Boogies
- Ganso Ichigo-chan
- Shizuru
- Tom Brown
- Fire Thunder
- Bernardo
- Ya Dan
- Long Coat Daddy
- Rainbow
The field showcases the breadth of Japanese comedy, highlighting acts with proven track records as well as emerging talents looking to leave a lasting mark on one of the country’s premier humor competitions.
Broadcast Details and Host
The King of Conte 2025 final will be broadcast live on the TBS network on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 18:30 to 21:56 local time. The three-and-a-half-hour special marks another year of high-stakes performances, dramatic votes, and memorable moments on national television. Returning as master of ceremonies is the veteran host Hamada from Downtown, continuing the tradition of bringing warmth and humor to the broadcast while keeping the show moving at a brisk pace for a live audience as well as home viewers.
In addition, the opening theme for King of Conte 2025 is set to be performed by Umeda Cypher for the fourth consecutive year, kicking off the night with a distinctive musical cue that fans have come to expect as part of the show’s signature atmosphere. Viewers can anticipate a carefully paced program that blends the energy of the finalists with the measured scrutiny of the judges, culminating in a climactic decision that crowns the season’s top act.
What to Expect from the Final Night
As the finalists prepare to take the stage, audiences should expect a diverse array of comedy formats, from character-driven sketches to rapid-fire punchlines and crowd-work moments that test timing and adaptability. The judges’ panel will offer feedback that can both reward bold choices and guide humor toward sharper execution. Given the live format, the night promises electricity, surprises, and the kind of unforgettable moments that often define King of Conte as a cultural touchstone within Japanese stand-up and sketch comedy.
Why This Final Feels Special
With a mix of established acts and exciting newcomers, this year’s competition reflects the evolving landscape of Japanese comedy. The judging group, featuring familiar faces from iconic duos and beloved TV personalities, provides both credibility and a fresh perspective. The audience, both in the studio and at home, will be watching to see which act best embodies creativity, precision, and stage charisma under pressure.
