The future of “Shonen-tai,” the symbol of Johnny’s named by Mr. Johnny, is finally in limbo due to Noriyuki Higashiyama’s confusion.

There is a growing movement to reconsider related names that contain words associated with sexual assault. The word “shonen” is particularly dangerous, and a program by Junior (formerly Johnny’s Jr.) and others, the TV Asahi program “#Naked Boys,” just ended on November 4. Naturally, the name “Shonen-tai” would also be subject to name change debate, but since the “masterpiece” unit has not disbanded and is no longer active, it is still in a gray area, completely in limbo. The question of what to do with them now also involves Higashiyama’s departure, and those involved are likely to have their heads in the sand.

The question of what Higashiyama will do after his work at SMILE, a company dedicated to compensating victims, is expected to come up sooner or later.

After the completion of his work at SMILE, there will naturally be talk of resuming his entertainment activities. Nishikori commented in an interview with “Sankei Sports” on October 30, “I think Higashiyama has made up his mind” to express his sympathy for Higashiyama’s retirement announcement. Uekusa also commented in “Sports Hochi” on September 21, saying, “I want to sing the songs of the three of us together,” and thinking about their activities as Shonen-tai.

Will they consider changing their name, or will they let the group sleep? Or will they break up at some point? The “Shonen-tai” super-unit may slowly become a “negative legacy” created by Mr. Janney in the future.

FRIDAY Digital welcomes any information or tips you may have to share with us. Please send your information to the following information form or to the official Twitter.

Information form: https://friday.kodansha.co.jp/tips

Official twitter: https://twitter.com/FRIDAY_twit