From April 10, 1995, SMAP began starring in their variety show, SMAP no Gambarimashou, which aired every weeknights, until September 29, 1995. It consisted of interviews with celebrities, sketch comedies, and musical performances. The program's format became the basis for their new variety show, SMAPxSMAP, and served as its predecessor. SMAPxSMAP was launched six months after Gambarimashou ended and became the band's first television program on a prime-time slot.
