Tokyo, Japan – Actor Suzuki Fuk, a familiar face to Japanese television viewers, is set to graduate from his role as Thursday personality on Nippon Television’s popular morning program, ZIP!, at the end of March. The announcement, made during a live broadcast on February 19, 2026, marks the end of a three-year period where Suzuki balanced his burgeoning acting career with the demands of live television. The news was met with both gratitude and sadness from co-hosts and viewers alike, highlighting the impact the young star has had on the show.
Suzuki, currently 21 years old, first gained national recognition in 2011 with his starring role in the drama Marumo no Okite. His performance and the show’s theme song, released under the name “Kaoru to Tomoki, Tamani Mook,” achieved significant commercial success, earning him the Special Award and Modern Artist Award at the 44th Japan Cable Awards and the Special Award at the 53rd Japan Record Awards. He also holds the distinction of being the youngest person to ever appear on the prestigious NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen (Red and White Song Contest) in 2012. His continued presence on ZIP! has allowed audiences to witness his growth both personally and professionally.
Balancing Act: Career and Education
The decision to leave ZIP! comes as Suzuki focuses on his academic pursuits. Throughout his tenure on the show, he diligently juggled his responsibilities as a television personality with his studies. Water卜麻美 (Mizuto Asami), the program’s main host, expressed her appreciation for Suzuki’s dedication, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining both commitments. “For the past three years, Fuk-san has balanced his studies with his role as Thursday personality, and we are incredibly grateful for his hard work,” Mizuto said, as reported by au Web Portal. au Web Portal
Suzuki himself conveyed his gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing the value of the time spent with the ZIP! team and its viewers. “These past three hours and ten minutes, spent with everyone, have been a precious time. I want to cherish the next month and give it my all,” he stated during the live broadcast. He also expressed his eagerness to continue contributing to the show for the remainder of his commitment, adding, “Thank you for everything so far, and I glance forward to your continued support. I’ll do my best for the next month!” ｄメニューニュース
A Return After a Brief Hiatus
Interestingly, Suzuki’s recent appearance on ZIP! followed a brief absence that garnered attention in October 2025. He had taken a scheduled break for the summer, but the news of his temporary departure unexpectedly made headlines. Suzuki addressed the situation on Instagram, expressing his surprise at the media coverage. “I took a break last week, but I was surprised to see it reported in the news!” he wrote. Nikkan Sports He also reflected on the renewed appreciation he felt for his role on the show and the importance of Mizuto’s presence, acknowledging a sense of unease during her own summer break.
The return to ZIP!, however, was short-lived, culminating in the announcement of his departure at the end of March. This decision allows him to fully dedicate himself to his studies and future career endeavors, whereas leaving a lasting impression on the program and its audience.
Reaction from Mizuto Asami
Mizuto Asami, the anchor of ZIP!, expressed her sadness at Suzuki’s impending departure, but also acknowledged his require to prioritize his education. She playfully hinted at future collaborations, stating her desire to continue working with him on other projects. “I’m sad to see him go, but I want to continue working with him on various things in the future,” Mizuto said. au Web Portal Her words underscore the positive relationship between the two and the respect they have for each other’s professional goals.
Suzuki’s departure marks a changing of the guard for ZIP!, a program that has become a staple of Japanese morning television. His contributions as Thursday personality will be remembered fondly by viewers, and his future endeavors will undoubtedly be followed with great interest.
The final broadcast featuring Suzuki Fuk as a regular personality on ZIP! is scheduled for March 31, 2026. Viewers can continue to follow his career and academic progress through his official social media channels and future television appearances. The program will announce any plans for a replacement in the coming weeks.
As Suzuki embarks on this new chapter, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, talent, and a commitment to balancing personal and professional aspirations. His journey serves as an inspiration to young people across Japan, demonstrating the importance of pursuing both education and one’s passions.
Key Takeaways:
- Actor Suzuki Fuk will be leaving his position as Thursday personality on ZIP! at the end of March 2026.
- The decision is driven by his desire to focus on his academic studies.
- Suzuki expressed gratitude for the opportunity and the support he received during his three years on the show.
- ZIP! anchor Mizuto Asami expressed sadness at his departure but wished him well in his future endeavors.
The next confirmed update regarding ZIP! will be the announcement of Suzuki Fuk’s replacement, expected in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to Nippon Television and official program channels for further details. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and memories of Suzuki Fuk’s time on ZIP! in the comments below.
