Nakata Botan, a member of the Kamigata manzai comedy duo Nakata Cows・Botan, has died at the age of 78, according to NHKニュース. The broadcaster reported the death on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
The duo performed in the Kamigata manzai tradition, a style of stand-up comedy rooted in the Kansai region. According to ｄメニューニュース, Nakata Botan was a pioneering figure described as an "idol manzai pe
Other Japanese outlets also reported the news, including news.tv-asahi.co.jp and Nikkan Sports. Nikkan Sports, in a piece carried by Yahoo!ニュース, recalled a surprise stage appearance by Nakata Botan du
No further details about the circumstances of his death were included in the material available.
Further reporting from Japanese media is expected to follow, including any statements from his comedy partner Nakata Cows and details of funeral arrangements.
Nakata Botan, half of the Kamigata manzai pair Nakata Cows・Botan, has died at 78, NHKニュース reports.