TOKYO — Masahiro Nakai, a prominent figure in Japan’s television industry and a former pop singer, announced his retirement on Thursday in response to allegations of sexual assault within the entertainment sector. This revelation is part of a broader series of scandals that have affected the industry and led to significant advertising losses for Fuji TV, where Nakai worked.
In December, the weekly magazine Shukan Bunshun disclosed that Nakai had come to a settlement amounting to 90 million yen (approximately $580,000) with a woman regarding an alleged sexual assault that took place at a dinner party in 2023, which was allegedly organized by Fuji TV staff. Although he acknowledged the existence of a “trouble” and the settlement, Nakai denied any accusations of violence in a statement made earlier this month. Additionally, the magazine claimed that Fuji TV had a long history of exploiting its female announcers for the entertainment of stars like Nakai.
In his statement, Nakai expressed his deep remorse and announced, “I, Masahiro Nakai, am retiring from entertainment activities as of today.” He shared his apologies with his fan club and on various social media platforms, where members circulated the announcement. Nakai reiterated his sorrow for causing trouble to many and conveyed his “sincere apology” to the affected woman, adding, “I’m really, really sorry for saying good-bye this way … Sayonara.”
The entertainment landscape in Japan is currently experiencing a significant upheaval due to numerous sexual assault allegations, including serious accusations involving late talent manager Johnny Kitagawa, who reportedly abused dozens of boys and young men through his now-defunct agency, Johnny & Associates. Many boy bands, including Nakai’s former group SMAP, were managed by this agency.
In a recent statement, Fuji TV’s President Koichi Minato revealed that the company had been aware of the allegations for six months prior to the magazine’s report but had failed to disclose this information. He apologized and announced an internal investigation while asserting that he believed his employees acted appropriately.
As a result of the scandal, multiple commercials have been pulled from air, and Fuji TV has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to advertisers and agencies without providing specific details. Ryunosuke Endo, Fuji Television Network’s vice-chairperson, acknowledged during a press conference that he first learned about the issue in December when he was solicited for comments. He expressed shock upon discovering the extent of the situation, highlighting that it had been kept confidential among a limited circle.
Endo emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust through a transparent investigation led by a third party. Concurrently, Fuji TV and its parent company, Fuji Media Holdings, convened a board meeting where they announced the establishment of an independent panel of lawyers adhering to guidelines outlined by the Japan Federation of Bar Associations.
The meeting was initiated in response to shareholders seeking clarification about the scandal and to inquire about the measures that the company has implemented or plans to implement. In his statement, Nakai indicated that he has finalized negotiations to terminate his existing television, radio, and sponsorship contracts. He acknowledged that there are still responsibilities he has yet to confront and committed to “face various problems and respond sincerely.”
Endo remarked that Nakai’s decision to retire was personal, yet he confirmed that Nakai would be part of the forthcoming investigation and expressed hope for Nakai’s full cooperation. Reflecting on his past, Endo mentioned that he attended several parties accompanied by female announcers, or “joshi anna,” who often serve as assistants on entertainment shows. He noted that these gatherings were intended for networking and business but acknowledged that such a culture could stem from a male-dominated environment.
