Kazunari Ninomiya Remembers Tomoaki Ogura As Arashi’s Guiding Father
A heartfelt farewell ceremony for renowned freelance announcer Tomoaki Ogura was held on March 17, 2025, at the iconic Blue Note Tokyo, where approximately 700 attendees gathered to honor his legacy. Ogura, who passed away on December 9, 2024, at the age of 77 due to bladder cancer, was remembered fondly by both fellow entertainers and friends.
Kazunari Ninomiya, 41, from the famed boy band Arashi, was among those who expressed deep admiration for Ogura, referring to him as ‘like a father’ during his emotional tribute. The event took place at Blue Note Tokyo, a jazz club where Ogura often spent time, reflecting the personal connection he had with the venue.
During the ceremony, attendees listened to music from Ogura’s student band, ‘Memory of Future,’ which he formed during his student years, where he played bass and provided vocals. The gathering created a nostalgic atmosphere, showcasing Ogura’s passion for music during his lifetime.
Attendees, including fellow celebrities like actor Osamu T寺尾, and longtime colleague Shinji Kasai, delivered moving tributes. Kasai, who was the master of ceremonies, highlighted his long professional relationship with Ogura, stating, “I was fortunate to work alongside him for over 20 years on ‘Tokudane!’ and strive every day to live up to the legacy he left behind.” He humorously added, “I want to avoid Ogura saying from the heavens, ‘Kasai, what are you doing?'” as he paid homage to his mentor.
A centerpiece of the altar was Ogura’s portrait taken around 2023, surrounded by sentimental items. Among these were jerseys from the Seibu Lions and Real Madrid, guitars, and photographs capturing moments with Arashi, including shared experiences and behind-the-scenes memories. Ninomiya pointed out how Ogura had always made time to watch their performances, dedicatively engaging with their music, films, and television dramas.
Reflecting on their bond, Ninomiya remarked, “When we were unsure and lacked confidence, Ogura would step in on our shows, presenting us as we were. He played such a pivotal role in grounding us and gaining acceptance on television.” The singer also recounted how Ogura attended multiple Arashi concerts, reinforcing his presence as both supporter and champion.
“It’s been more than three months since his passing, and the sadness is still palpable,” Ninomiya shared, his voice trembling as he spoke. “We had stayed connected throughout his illness, and I could feel he was reaching the end. It’s hard to swallow the finality of it all, but I hope he’s enjoying himself now.”
This ceremony, remembered not only for its emotional tributes but also for its celebration of Ogura’s vibrant life, culminated with attendees reminiscing over the legacy he left behind. Guests at the ceremony were treated with drip bags from Ogura’s favorite coffee shop, symbolizing the warmth he brought to many.
Among the displays at Blue Note Tokyo were various items from Ogura’s extensive collection, estimated to exceed 50,000 personal belongings. Among them were multiple string instruments, uniforms from clubs he supported, Olympic torch relay memorabilia, and even high-quality cameras—showcasing Ogura’s diverse interests and hobbies.
Despite the somber occasion, the farewell event echoed with laughter and heartfelt stories, reminiscent of the joy Ogura brought to those around him. His ability to connect with younger generations—especially those like Ninomiya—was celebrated, encapsulating the kind of mentorship he offered throughout his life.
Notably, the ceremony also included tributes from fans and friends, each recounting unique memories and the impact Ogura had on shaping their careers. His presence was felt throughout the music and entertainment industry, making his legacy one truly remarkable.
Reflecting on his last meal with Ogura, which took place about 18 months before his passing, Ninomiya said, “I held him dear and the last moments will always be fresh.” He continued, “Moving forward, I’ll strive to honor everything Ogura was about, ensuring he can look down and be proud of all our endeavors.” The sentiment expressed captures just how deeply Ogura impacted the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege to know him.
Ogura was not just a highly respected announcer but also served as the face of Fuji Television’s morning program ‘Tokudane!’ for over two decades, making him well-known and beloved across Japanese households. His unexpected announcement of battling bladder cancer came as a shock to many fans, as he was known for his active lifestyle and engagement with various interests.
The stories shared during his ceremony painted Ogura as not merely a broadcaster but as someone who understood the importance of connection, community, and legacy. His efforts to support up-and-coming talent have left indelible marks within the industry.
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