“I even get confused between right and left,” she admits on Japanese Variety Show

Emiko Kawamura, the boke of the popular Japanese comedy duo Tanpopo, recently shared a candid and humorous confession that has captured the attention of fans across Japan. On the February 25, 2026 episode of the Nippon TV variety show Ueda and Women Bark at Night, Kawamura revealed that she has never obtained a driver’s license due to her poor motor skills and fear of driving.

Known for her relatable humor and self-deprecating style, Kawamura’s admission sparked laughter and sympathy from both the studio audience and viewers at home, highlighting a side of celebrity life that many people can relate to.

Show Theme: Athletic Women vs. Clumsy Women

The episode’s theme was “Athletic Women vs. Clumsy Women,” focusing on a playful competition between women who excel in sports and those who struggle with basic motor coordination. Guests were invited to share stories and participate in challenges that showcased their physical abilities or lack thereof.

Emiko Kawamura appeared as the representative of the “clumsy” group. True to her reputation for candid humor, she did not shy away from admitting her shortcomings, offering an honest glimpse into her life outside of the comedy stage. Her stories resonated with viewers, many of whom admitted they too struggle with coordination or physical tasks.

Kawamura’s Driving School Experience

During the show, MC Shinya Ueda of Cream Stew asked Kawamura whether she was also poor at driving. In response, she revealed a story that surprised some viewers:

• She enrolled in a driving school intending to obtain her license
• However, she failed to complete the program within the allotted time
• She attempted to restart her lessons but never managed to finish
• As a result, Kawamura still does not possess a driver’s license

Her honesty drew laughter and empathy from the other guests, who shared similar experiences of fear or anxiety when it comes to driving or other motor skills.

Kayo Ohkubo Shares a Similar Experience

Co-star Kayo Ohkubo, a well-known comedian in her own right, joined Kawamura in reminiscing about their shared difficulties at driving school. Ohkubo explained:

“We went to driving school together, but both of us ran out of time. We understood the theory, like when to turn and how to operate the vehicle, but when it came to actually doing it, fear would take over, and we just could not perform.”

Kawamura nodded in agreement and humorously added:

“I even get confused between right and left when driving instructions are given.”

This exchange highlighted a universal struggle. Even when one understands theory perfectly, applying it under pressure can be daunting. The moment resonated with viewers, many of whom commented online that Kawamura and Ohkubo’s experiences were so relatable and genuinely funny.

Emiko Kawamura: A Profile

Emiko Kawamura is a celebrated Japanese comedian and television personality, best known as one half of the comedy duo Tanpopo. In the duo, she plays the boke or funny-person role, often engaging in self-deprecating humor and storytelling that brings levity to everyday situations.

Kawamura has appeared on numerous variety shows, often discussing everyday challenges and humorous mishaps. Her candid approach and willingness to laugh at herself have made her a beloved figure among Japanese audiences. Her anecdotes about clumsiness, physical challenges, and other relatable experiences have become signature elements of her comedic style.

Why This Story Resonates

The story of Kawamura’s failure to obtain a driver’s license is both humorous and relatable. Many viewers identified with her struggles, particularly the feeling of understanding a task in theory but failing under real-life conditions. Whether it is driving, playing sports, or performing a physical task, the anxiety of execution often overcomes knowledge.

Social media platforms were quick to react after the episode aired. Twitter, Instagram, and fan forums were filled with comments like:

• “Cheering for Emiko Kawamura to get her license someday”
• “Her honesty and humor make her even more relatable”
• “I thought I was the only one who gets confused between right and left”

The reaction demonstrates the power of relatable celebrity stories. Viewers not only enjoy the humor but also connect emotionally with the human side of celebrities.

A Lighthearted Take on Motor Skills

This episode also highlighted the difference between theory and practice in a humorous, non-judgmental way. Kawamura and Ohkubo both emphasized that knowing what to do is not always enough. Execution under pressure can be overwhelming.

Psychologists and educators often note that motor skill challenges are common, even among adults, and that stress or fear can amplify mistakes. Kawamura’s story brings this into the public eye in a humorous, accessible way, encouraging audiences to accept their own limitations while finding laughter in everyday mishaps.

Looking Ahead: Will Kawamura Get Her License?

As of now, Kawamura has not revealed concrete plans to try again for a driver’s license. However, the discussion on the show opened the door for future attempts and created a narrative that fans are eager to follow. The combination of humor, relatability, and suspense makes this story one that could easily go viral if Kawamura shares an update on her progress.

Fans are already expressing their support, hoping she will overcome her fears and succeed in her driving journey:

“We believe in you, Emiko. You can do it”

“Even if she never gets a license, she’s still amazing and funny”

Whether she eventually obtains her license or not, this story has cemented her reputation as an entertainer who embraces vulnerability and authenticity.

Conclusion

Emiko Kawamura’s admission on Ueda and Women Bark at Night offers a perfect blend of humor, relatability, and humanity. Her candid sharing of struggles with motor skills and driving has resonated with viewers across Japan, showing that even celebrities face challenges that many ordinary people understand.

Through her humor and honesty, Kawamura not only entertains but also provides reassurance to those who struggle with similar issues. Her story is a reminder that it is okay to laugh at oneself and that failure, when shared openly, can create connection and joy.

With her unique comedic style, candid storytelling, and the universal struggle of motor skill challenges, Emiko Kawamura continues to delight audiences, proving that vulnerability and humor can go hand in hand, even when navigating the literal and figurative roads of life.