This archive report was first published on 11 May 2020.
Published on May 11, 2020, the Japanese government has extended a state of emergency until the end of May, although it is considering lifting the measures early in parts of the country.
'Sazae-san', the world's longest-running cartoon, has been a staple of Japanese weekend television for decades. However, the coronavirus has forced the broadcast of re-runs for the first time since 1975.
According to Fuji Television Network, the animation dubbing for 'Sazae-san' has been halted to keep staff safe. The network announced that it will halt the broadcast of new episodes from May 17 and instead air re-runs.
The re-runs will feature episodes from two years ago, and the network will announce a date for the resumption of new episodes as soon as possible.
'Sazae-san' has been a beloved cartoon in Japan since its first airing in 1969. It revolves around the life of Mrs Sazae, a cheerful but clumsy full-time housewife who lives with her family.
