Sat Mar 01 05:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Veteran Japanese TV Personality Mino Monta Dies at 80
**Tokyo, Japan** – Renowned Japanese television personality Mino Monta (real name Norio Minorikawa) passed away on March 1st at the age of 80. Monta, known for his quick wit and engaging style, hosted numerous popular programs throughout his career, including “Gogo wa ○○ Omoikkiri Terebi” (Afternoon is ○○ Really Television) on Nippon Television and “Asa Zubat!” (Morning Zubat!) on TBS. His career spanned decades, culminating in his hosting of the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen (NHK Red and White Song Battle) in 2005.
Monta, born in Tokyo in 1944, began his broadcasting career at Culture Broadcasting in 1967, where he was the first personality on the popular radio program “Sei! Young”. He adopted the stage name “Mino Monta” during his time at Culture Broadcasting, as his real name was deemed too difficult to pronounce. Beyond his television work, he was also the chairman of the water meter company Nikkoku.
His passing marks the end of an era for Japanese television, leaving behind a legacy of memorable moments and a large audience who cherished his lighthearted and engaging personality. He will be remembered as a true icon of Japanese broadcasting.
First Piper 