Overview: King of Conte 2025 finals set for a live broadcast
The countdown is on for the King of Conte 2025 finals, with the judging panel confirmed for another high-stakes showcase of Japan’s top comedy talents. The special three-and-a-half-hour live broadcast on TBS is slated for Saturday, October 11, and fans are gearing up for another thrilling night of stand-up, sketch, and rapid-fire punchlines. Returning host Hamada from Downtown will guide the proceedings, keeping the energy high as the ten finalists bring their best material to the stage. In addition, the opening track will be performed once again by Umeda Cipher, continuing a four-year tradition that bookends the competition with a distinctive musical touch.
Judges for King of Conte 2025 Finals
A panel of seasoned comedians and industry voices will lend their expertise to the climactic round. This year’s lineup combines familiar faces with fresh perspectives, underscoring the show’s commitment to fairness and entertainment. The judges are professional veterans from a range of popular groups, each bringing a unique sense of timing, rhythm, and audience connection:
- Iizuka from Tokyo 03
- Kotoge from Baikin
- Akiyama from Robert
- Yamauchi from Kamaitachi
- Jiro from Shisone
- Shizuru
- Long Coat Daddy
- Fire Thunder
- Urutora Boogies
- Ya-dan
- Aoiro 1-go
- Bernardo
- Ganso Ichigo-chan
- Tom Brown
- Rainbow
Together, these judges will evaluate originality, stage presence, pacing, and audience impact, contributing to the night’s decisive outcomes while offering insights that resonate with fans and aspiring comedians alike.
Finalists lineup
Ten teams have earned their place in the grand finale this year. The competition continues to showcase a diverse mix of styles—from rapid-fire wordplay and character-based humor to situational sketches and music-infused bits. The finalists are:
- Aoiro 1-go
- Urutora Boogies
- Ganso Ichigo-chan
- Shizuru
- Tom Brown
- Fire Thunder
- Bernardo
- Ya-dan
- Long Coat Daddy
- Rainbow
Each team has honed its act through the heat of previous rounds, and the live final will put their chemistry, timing, and resilience to the ultimate test in front of a nationwide audience. Expect bold premises, sharp punchlines, and moments that push the boundaries of the format while staying true to the spirit of the King of Conte competition.
Broadcast details and what to watch for
The final will air on TBS on October 11, from 18:30 to 21:56 local time. With Hamada from Downtown continuing as the MC, viewers can anticipate a blend of humor, drama, and surprise entries as the finalists step into the spotlight. The four-year-running opening theme by Umeda Cipher adds a familiar sonic signature to the show’s opening, signaling the start of another memorable night of Japanese comedy.
Why this matters for the comedy scene
King of Conte remains one of the premier platforms for Japanese comedians to showcase their craft on a national stage. The consistent presence of a diverse judging panel, paired with a strong set of finalists, indicates a healthy ecosystem where new voices can emerge alongside established acts. For fans, the finals offer a rare chance to witness live development in comedic style and character work—an ongoing invitation to follow performers as they push boundaries and grow their audiences.
What to expect after the show
Whether a winner emerges or a standout moment goes viral, the King of Conte finals often reshapes careers. Expect media coverage, club bookings, and social chatter to reflect the night’s most memorable lines, gags, and performances. The judges’ feedback, the host’s rhythm, and the finalists’ tenacity together craft a compelling chapter in this yearly comedy tradition.
