“Ae Group” Fans Disappointed by the Alleged Compliance Violation of Member Daiharu Fukumoto

Originally, they were supposed to be used for the cheering song at the World Cup Volleyball last September, but it was cancelled due to the sex assault issue. She also attended the Osaka-Kansai Expo 1,000 days before the event as a cheering group, but has not been asked to sing since then.

 

“If it were not for the sex-abuse issue, they would have made our debut long ago. Among the members, Yoshinori Shomon and Fukumoto were very popular, and the group was expected to replace the inactive Arashi.”

“The sex assault issue was a complete embarrassment and drew sympathy from fans, but Fukumoto’s scandal is inexcusable. Although this is Fukumoto’s personal trouble, the impact on the group as a whole is inevitable, and the first place on the debut standby list will be given to ‘HiHi Jets’ and ‘Bishonen'” (music insider).

The TV personality Fumikazu Hamanaka, who announced his resignation from SMILE-UP. in the middle of last month, said in a radio program,

“Please let the Ae! Group debut as soon as possible. Please!”

He knew that the group had overcome hardships and was pushing forward toward their debut.

 

“The group’s fans were indeed in for a big shock. There is some criticism of Fukumoto, but many are concerned about the loss of motivation among the current members. They are worried that some members may leave the group.”

At a press conference held last year, STARTO COO Yoshihiko Inohara said, “The concept of debut is changing.”

 

He also stated that the company would be more flexible than in the old Johnny’s days. Even so, fans are still hoping for a “debut = major single release” that will remain as a formality.

“I’m too sad that they can’t make their CD debut after supporting them all this way.”

Some of the volunteers are prepared to go directly to the new president, Mr. Fukuda.

What does Fukumoto, who left after causing so much turmoil, think about now?