Top executives of Japan’s largest television network, Fuji TV, have resigned amid a sex scandal involving a well-known host. Masahiro Nakai, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and frontman for the boy band SMAP, has also retired from his career following accusations of sexual misconduct at a 2023 dinner party.
Dozens of companies, including automakers Nissan and Toyota, have pulled their advertisements from Fuji TV, which has faced criticism for its handling of the scandal. The network’s chairman, Shuji Kano, and president, Koichi Minato, publicly apologized to viewers and stakeholders after the allegations were made public.
In a press conference, they announced their resignations, citing the scandal as a significant reason for their departure from Fuji TV. Mr. Minato acknowledged that the company knew about the allegations shortly after they arose but chose not to disclose them at the time, stating it prioritized the victim’s recovery and privacy.
Nakai admitted paying the woman involved in the incident over half a million dollars before her consent was withdrawn. Further investigations have revealed other instances of improper conduct within the network, with similar dinner parties involving celebrities becoming a common practice in the industry.
Fuji TV has established an independent investigation committee to address the issues and ensure accountability. President Kenji Shimizu has pledged to strengthen corporate governance and prevent future incidents. Meanwhile, major networks have suspended shows hosted by Nakai following the scandal’s fallout.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0jnq1dv745o