TOKYO — NHK announced Wednesday that popular actress Yukie Nakama, 26, will be join the hosting team of its annual New Year's Eve "Kohaku Utagassen." "Kohaku Utagassen" has been a staple program not only for NHK, but for most of Japan for decades, but the program has been struggling to gain good ratings in recent years. Last year, its ratings were the lowest ever at 39.3%. NHK hopes that Nakama, who will star in next year's period drama "Kyomyo ga Tsuji," will attract more viewers. NHK said in a statement that Nakama was the perfect choice to host "Kohaku" as she appeals to all generations, and she has had experience as a host of music programs.
