The Return of a Beloved Series
‘GENERATIONS High TV’ (GENE High), which ran from 2017 to March 2024, was a school youth variety show where GENERATIONS members visited schools across Japan, participating in classes and club activities to interact with students. Its revival as ‘GENE Uni’ brought the familiar energetic atmosphere back, much to the delight of both the members and their fans. The program kicked off with the members expressing their joy at the show’s return, though a humorous cue card about former member Mandy’s absence quickly sparked laughter and playful banter among them.
Ryuuto Kazuhara’s Candid Reflection
Amidst the excitement, member Ryuuto Kazuhara took a moment for earnest introspection, declaring, “Due to recent compliance regulations, the me of those days is no longer here. Today, I want to present myself as a gentleman.” He candidly recalled past ‘GENE High’ moments, such as jokingly calling a restaurant owner a “takoyaki old man” out of frustration for not getting to eat Matsusaka beef. “I truly think it was not good,” Kazuhara admitted, reflecting on his behavior. Fellow member Ryota Katayose agreed, adding, “While it’s part of variety TV, when isolated, it looks quite bad.” Kazuhara concluded his self-reflection with a frank assessment: “Just a guy with a bad attitude.”
Undercover at Kansai University’s Festival
Upon arriving at Kansai University for its unified school festival, the members’ initial worries about a subdued reception were quickly dispelled by enthusiastic cheers from the students. A surprise visit to the brass band club, slated for a collaboration performance, moved one dedicated GENERATIONS fan to tears, exclaiming, “It’s like a dream.”
The members then dove into supporting the festival, albeit in disguise. Reo Komori energized a dance festival’s vote counting, while Alan Shirahama and Yuta Nakatsuka made impromptu appearances in a bench press competition. Hayato Sano, donning a rabbit costume, distributed pamphlets for the “Kandai Character General Election.”
However, their attempts at anonymity proved challenging. Ryota Katayose, tasked with taking photos for official SNS, was recognized instantly when he addressed a student: “Wait, isn’t that Ryota Katayose-kun?” Similarly, Ryuuto Kazuhara, helping with trash collection in the food stall area, was quickly spotted with cries of “Eh, it’s Ryuto-kun!” Despite these humorous unmaskings, the first day of their university adventure concluded successfully.
A Rousing First-Ever Campus Performance
The second day brought the highlight of ‘GENE Uni’: GENERATIONS’ inaugural university festival special performance. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the group performed hit songs like ‘AGEHA’ and ‘Evergreen 2.0’ live, moving some executive committee members to tears. The collaboration with the university’s brass band on ‘Shonen’ and ‘MY GENERATION’ added a unique, heartfelt dimension to the show, blending their powerful vocals with the students’ instrumental prowess.
After the performance, the feedback from the students was overwhelmingly positive, with comments like “It was the best!” and “Even a man would fall for them.” The brass band members expressed their deep gratitude, saying the experience made them “love GENERATIONS even more.”
This special event, where GENERATIONS brought immense excitement to Kansai University’s festival and delivered a passionate live performance to 3,500 fervent attendees, is currently available for free on ABEMA. You can watch ‘GENERATIONS University TV’ here: https://abema.go.link/22c2d
Additionally, to commemorate this broadcast, the ‘GENERATIONS LIVE TOUR 2024 “GENERATIONS 2.0”’ is also being streamed for free until December 31, 2025, 23:59. Don’t miss this opportunity to relive their incredible concert experience: https://abema.go.link/l1zKc
This kind of direct and heartfelt engagement with their student fanbase not only solidifies GENERATIONS’ connection with the next generation but also showcases the enduring appeal of Japanese idol groups. Such unique interactions, blending entertainment with genuine connection, are likely to further expand the reach and admiration for Kawaii culture and J-Pop artists on a global scale.
