Shitara and Himura formed as a comedy unit in 1993 and debuted on stage in 1994. Himura had broken up with his previous partner and Shitara was working as the driver of the comedian
Masayuki Watanabe, so they formed a duo after a friend introduced them. developing a theatrical style that emphasized verbal repartee. In 2008, they came in second on the nationally televised annual
King of Conte skit comedy contest. Up until then, Bananaman had concentrated on live performances and DVD releases, and the duo received their own show,
Banana Fire, for the first time in April 2009. After that, they became the hosts of several other television shows, including
Nogizaka tte Doko? and its successor
Nogizaka Kojichū (with
Nogizaka46),
Banana-juku, and
Why Did You Come to Japan?, Shitara and Himura also appear by themselves on various programs, with Shitara, for instance, hosting the live news program
Nonstop!. Bananaman have also appeared in acting roles on film and television (for instance, Shitara in
Kakusho ~ Keishicho Sōsa 3 Ka). In the year 2012, Shitara appeared on more television programs than any other Japanese personality, appearing in 611 programs, 163 with Himura (Himura was ranked 12th with 428 television appearances). Shitara also led the rankings for the first half of 2013. Bananaman are the of the
girl group Nogizaka46 and are said to support them like family. The duo are the hosts of Nogizaka's weekly late night variety show,
Nogizaka Kojichū, and will occasionally mention the girls in their radio show, BananaMoon Gold. Many Nogizaka46 members also say they listen to Bananaman's radio show and follow their schedules. The two acts often appear in each other's events and regular shows. == Members ==