FUJI TV producer Kuroki Shoichi (“Waratte Iitomo!”, “SMAP x SMAP”) passed away

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Kuroki Shoichi, a Fuji Television producer who was in charge of shows such as “Waratte Iitomo!” and “SMAP x SMAP”, passed away on the 13th, according to a source close to him. He was 54 years old.

Kuroki is from Kyoto Prefecture. His family plans to hold a wake and memorial service soon.

Kuroki was born in 1969. After graduating from Waseda University, he joined Fuji Television in 1994. He is in charge of variety and music programs. He was known as a famous producer who was in charge of programs such as “Waratte Iitomo!” hosted by Tamori and SMAP’s flagship program “SMAP x SMAP”.

“SMAP x SMAP” featured guest appearances by big-name overseas artists, but Kuroki personally went to Grammy Awards ceremonies and other events to directly negotiate and secure their appearances. He has a deep knowledge of music.

For the past two years, he has been battling an illness.

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