Downtown is a Japanese comedy duo from Amagasaki, Hyōgo consisting of Hitoshi Matsumoto and Masatoshi Hamada. Formed in 1982, they are one of the most influential and prolific comedy duos in Japan today. They are best known for their stand-up acts, hosting numerous Japanese variety shows and their sarcastic, short-tempered stage personas.
Matsumoto (left) and Hamada (right) in 2020
Their first television appearance in 1982 at the age of 18 and not yet known as Downtown
A VHS from 1988
Hamada about to hit Matsumoto on the head on Downtown DX
Amagasaki is an industrial city located in Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan. As of 30 November 2022, the city had an estimated population of 455,555 in 223812 households, and a population density of 9000 persons per km². The total area of the city is 50.72 km2 (19.58 sq mi).
Image: Amagasaki City Hall
Image: Archaic Hall Amagasaki Hyogo 02s 3s 2550
Image: Amagasaki
Image: Amagasaki City Library 01bbs 3s 3840