 |
Sakurazaka46’s captain, Matsuda Rina, is keeping her Thursday regular spot on TBS’s morning show THE TIME, and fans couldn’t be happier.
After speculation about her departure following the exits of Hinatazaka46’s Matsuda Konoka and Nogizaka46’s Ichinose Miku, the news of her continuation sent social media into a frenzy.
TBS officially announced the new lineup, with Matsuda Rina continuing as the Thursday regular.
Show host Azumi Shinichiro personally thanked her, saying, “Looking forward to your Thursday appearances as always,” to which Matsuda responded with a bright smile, “Thank you, I’ll do my best!”
Online, fans celebrated her success:
-
“So happy Matsuri-chan is staying! Her energy keeps us going!”
-
“Our captain is amazing! She truly deserves this.”
-
“TBS recognises Matsuda Rina’s talent—she’s a genius idol!”
The announcement also sparked debate about the Sakamichi Series.
Some believe that Sakurazaka46 and Hinatazaka46 should break away from the group’s current structure, arguing that Matsuda Konoka and Ichinose Miku were unfairly affected by Nogizaka46’s dominant reputation.
“TBS clearly doesn’t welcome them,” one fan wrote. “Ichinose is a great girl, but she’s a Nogizaka idol. Matsuda Konoka’s exit is just more proof.”
Despite the controversies, Matsuda Rina’s name trended on X, with hashtags like #thetime_tbs and #MatsudaRina ranking high.
It’s clear that fans see her continuation as a major win—not just for her, but for Sakurazaka46 as well.