TOKYO — A comprehensive investigation conducted independently has criticized Fuji Television Network for its inadequate support of a female employee involved in a prominent sexual assault case associated with one of Japan’s leading celebrities. The findings highlight a significant lack of awareness regarding human rights within the network’s management.
This investigation revolves around Masahiro Nakai, a former star of the renowned Japanese boy band SMAP, and critiques Fuji Television’s handling of the incident in 2023. The allegations came to light in December, raising concerns about potential systematic cover-ups by Fuji TV executives. Public dissatisfaction was significant enough to result in major advertising losses for the network, where Nakai used to work. This scandal prompted the resignation of top management and led Nakai to announce his retirement in January.
The findings, made public on Monday by a panel spearheaded by lawyers, represent the first external investigation into the affair. Previous internal inquiries by Fuji TV had denied any culpability. While Koichi Minato, the former president of the network, issued an apology in January, he emphasized his concerns for maintaining the victim’s confidentiality and prioritizing her mental health.
The external report criticized Fuji TV’s negligence concerning the incident, attributing this to a company culture that frequently involved young female employees in the social entertainment of male clientele and celebrities. The network’s disregard resulted in inappropriate handling of the victim’s situation, as she sought advice from her superiors and consulted with two doctors, yet no report was filed with the compliance office. This highlighted the executive management’s insufficient understanding of issues related to sexual violence and human rights.
Nakai continued making appearances on Fuji TV programs despite the situation. The decision to allow his participation was deemed “wrong and inconsiderate” by Akira Takeuchi, a prominent lawyer involved in the probe, who noted it greatly amplified the woman’s distress.
Takeuchi also mentioned that surveys among staff revealed widespread sexual harassment within the company. A history of high-profile sexual assault allegations have emerged within Japan’s entertainment sector in recent years. These include accusations against the late talent mogul Johnny Kitagawa, who abused numerous boys and young men. His now-defunct agency, Johnny & Associates, was responsible for managing various boy bands like SMAP.