Audrey’s Wakabayashi Shortlisted for Naoki Prize as 175th Literary Awards Announced
NHK reports that the shortlists for the 175th Akutagawa and Naoki Prizes have been released, marking Masayoshi Wakabayashi’s entry into serious literature.
The shortlists for the 175th Akutagawa Prize and Naoki Prize have been officially announced, with five works nominated for each of Japan’s premier literary awards. The selection process, overseen by the literary community and reported by NHK, highlights a significant shift in the Naoki Prize category with the inclusion of a prominent figure from the entertainment industry.
Masayoshi Wakabayashi, a member of the popular comedy duo Audrey, has been shortlisted for the Naoki Prize. This nomination marks his debut as a novelist, representing a notable crossover from stand-up comedy to literary fiction. The announcement underscores the continuing relevance of the Naoki Prize as a platform for popular fiction that appeals to a broad readership.
The Akutagawa Prize shortlist also features five nominated works, continuing the award’s tradition of recognising new talent in literary fiction. While the specific titles and authors for the Akutagawa Prize were not detailed in the initial reporting, the confirmation of the five shortlisted works signals the start of the judging period for the prestigious award.
The announcement was made on 11 June 2026, placing the 175th iteration of these awards in the context of contemporary Japanese cultural discourse. Both prizes remain central to the Japanese literary calendar, with the Akutagawa Prize typically focusing on serious literary merit and the Naoki Prize on popular fiction.
Wakabayashi’s nomination has drawn attention to the evolving boundaries between comedy and literature in Japan. As a well-known comedian, his entry into the novelistic sphere invites scrutiny regarding the reception of his first work by both critics and the general public. The outcome of this shortlist will determine which authors advance to the final selection for the 175th awards.
The literary community now awaits the final decision, which will be made by a panel of judges appointed for each prize. The results will not only honour the winning authors but also reflect the current trends and tastes within Japanese literature. The inclusion of Wakabayashi adds a unique dynamic to the Naoki Prize race, challenging traditional notions of literary authorship.
