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Jun 17, 20261
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Comedian Ginji Watanabe Delays Solo Living as Fellow Comedian Yamazoe Moves Back In
Ginji Watanabe of comedy duo Dondecorte, a finalist in the Double Impact 2026 competition, has delayed his plans to live alone after fellow comedian Hiroshi Yamazoe decided to move back into their shared residence. Watanabe had hoped a tournament win would enable him to move out, but Yamazoe's return means the pair will continue cohabiting.
Quick Facts
Who
Ginji Watanabe
What
Ginji Watanabe delayed his solo living plans
When
June 17, 2026
Where
Tokyo
- Ginji Watanabe delayed his solo living plans
- Hiroshi Yamazoe moved back into shared residence
- Dondecorte secured a spot in the Double Impact 2026 finals
- Eight acts were announced as finalists
- Press conference was held in Tokyo
Comedy duo Dondecorte, consisting of Kyosaku Kobashi and Ginji Watanabe, has secured a spot in the finals of the "Double Impact 2026" competition, which determines the top comedy act capable of excelling in both manzai and conte. At a press conference held in Tokyo on June 17 to announce the finalists, Watanabe revealed that his plans to move out and live alone have been postponed. He explained that comedian Hiroshi Yamazoe of the duo Aiseki Start has decided to move back into their shared residence, the "Masumaso" guesthouse owned by the family of fellow comedian Yasuhiro Masuda of Kageyama, prompting Watanabe to continue living there. The finals will feature eight acts, including Dondecorte, Nanamagari, Kaeru, Danbiramucho, TC Krakushon, Konya mo Hoshi ga Kirei, Takioto, and Biscuit Brothers. The event was hosted by Tomonori Jinnai, last year's champions Nippon no Shacho, and Nippon TV announcer Miyu Kuroda. Watanabe had initially hoped that winning the competition would allow him to afford his own place, but Yamazoe's return has extended the shared living arrangement indefinitely.
Topics
Why This Matters
This story matters because it highlights the economic and personal challenges young comedians in Japan face, balancing competitive success with everyday living costs. For comedy fans, it provides insight into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of popular acts and the support networks—like shared housing—that sustain them. It also signals the growing importance of major competitions like Double Impact in shaping comedy careers.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 17, 2026
WirePress conference announcing the eight finalists of Double Impact 2026, where Ginji Watanabe revealed his delayed solo living plans due to Hiroshi Yamazoe's move back in.