The samurai TV series “Abarenbo Shogun” is to come to an end after 25 years and 830 episodes, the second longest series of its kind. Star Matsudaira Ken (49) said he was sad, adding that he had hoped to reach the 1,000 mark. The final episode will air on TV Asahi on April 7.
• Several stars have stated their opposition to the war in Iraq. Singers including Utada Hikaru (20) and Yaida Hitomi (24) and actors Fujiwara Norika (31) and Kubotsuka Yosuke (23) have all posted anti-war messages on their websites. Singer Misia (24) appeared at an event to launch her new live DVD wearing a “No War” t-shirt.