Most weeks, watching “Terrace House: Tokyo 2019-2020” is a fun indulgence that lets viewers bask in the low-stakes drama of six 20-somethings (and an occasional 30-something) pursuing crushes, following their dreams, going on dates and cooking meals. But Episode 37 was different because when it comes to taking a stance on the subject of consent, “Terrace House” has a history of missing the mark. The panelists’ critiques (or rather roasts) of the housemates are often the best parts of the show, but as we all watch Toshiyuki aggressively pursue Yume over the last few episodes — smearing her mouth with lip balm before moving in for a kiss and planning an overnight trip to Kyoto as part of a double date with Kai and Hana — the commentators start out with sympathy for Yume only to conclude that her actions are partially to blame for Toshiyuki’s creepy behavior.
The episode begins with the panelists agreeing that while Toshiyuki is “unpleasant,” he provides a lot of entertainment. “I hope he remains undaunted,” says You.
Unlike Toshiyuki, Kai has second thoughts about going away to Kyoto for the weekend double date, coming up with a list of reasons why he’s hesitant: his stand-up career still needs a lot of work; he doesn’t have much money at the moment; and he has a lot on his mind. Toshiyuki quickly says that he’ll cover the costs of the trip, seeing as how he basically piggybacked onto Kai and Hana’s aquarium date plans. As for balancing love and comedy, Toshiyuki assures Kai that the more experiences he has, like going on a double date, the more material he’ll have for his act. Plus, he’ll only mope around the house if he doesn’t go. Convinced, Kai agrees to go, but nothing ever turns out as planned.