Yoshimoto Kogyo’s Comedy Crisis: The Truth About Hitoshi Matsumoto’s Investigation

Yoshimoto Kogyo has made a decision.

In response to the announcement, voices of admiration and voices of concern about potential trouble are swirling within the broadcasting industry.

In response to allegations of sexual assault by “Downtown” star Matsumoto Hitoshi, Yoshimoto Kogyo, the company to which Matsumoto belongs, recently announced that it is conducting interviews with the parties involved and is in the process of confirming the facts.

“It’s like the stage of the issue has been elevated or magnified.”

The TV program producer takes the situation seriously.

Yoshimoto Kogyo’s efforts themselves are a good thing, and there is nothing wrong with them, but they are necessary steps to clarify the facts.

The problem is the result of their efforts.

“As a result of Yoshimoto Kogyo’s interviews, there is a possibility that testimonies detrimental to Matsumoto-san may emerge. If such facts or testimonies come to light, can Yoshimoto Kogyo announce them openly? In that case, there is a possibility of a confrontation between Matsumoto and Yoshimoto Kogyo.

Yoshimoto might not be able to support legal proceedings. There could even be pressure on Matsumoto to withdraw from legal action. ‘Whether advancing or retreating, it’s hell either way’ in the quest for the truth. Yoshimoto is now pushed to the brink due to its own decisive actions,” said the aforementioned TV program producer.

A sports newspaper journalist points out that for the comedians undergoing interviews, Yoshimoto’s inquiries are also hellish, requiring them to brace themselves for what lies ahead.

“One could try to downplay the situation by saying ‘I don’t remember’ or giving vague testimony to protect Matsumoto, but that could backfire. You never know when or how many times the women involved might decide to speak out to magazines like Bunshun, and if evidence like LINE messages surfaces at that time, it’s game over. Trying to cover up could potentially lead to the end of one’s comedian career, forcing retirement.

Jun Kurose and Kenji Tamura from ‘Punk boo boo’ are already under scrutiny due to Bunshun’s revelations, and I believe they are in a tough spot,” stated the journalist.