Before a new television season begins in full, networks always air a few preview-type variety shows where cast members show up to plug their upcoming drama series. The content of such specials is usually a quiz or funny outtakes from the drama being promoted.
Fuji TV offers something a little different on "Tamori-Nakai no Konbi de Ii no ni" ("The Tamori-Nakai Combination Could be OK"; Mon., 9 p.m.), wherein comedian Kazuyoshi "Tamori" Morita and SMAP leader Masahiro Nakai throw a hanami (cherry blossom viewing) party attended by groups of actors who will appear on the new Fuji TV drama series this spring. All will bring souvenirs and food, and the festivities will be assisted by the usual cast of comedians who appear on Tamori's daily noon-time variety show, "Waratte Ii to mo" ("It's OK to Laugh").
TV Tokyo's new series, "Kazoku ni Naro" ("Let's Make a Family"; Fri., 7 p.m.), premieres this week with a two-hour special. As the title indicates, it's about family life, though specifically from the perspective of people in show business.