Network Navigating Downtown DX Cancellation Amid Matsumoto Hitoshi’s Ongoing Legal Battle

Following allegations of sexual misconduct reported in Weekly Bunshun, Hitoshi Matsumoto of “Downtown” is currently embroiled in legal battles with Bungeishunju Ltd. and others. Several months have passed since the initial report at the end of last year, and it has become commonplace in the television industry for Matsumoto to be absent.

 

During the first oral argument held on March 28th, Matsumoto’s side demanded that Weekly Bunshun provide the full names (stage names) and personal information such as addresses, dates of birth, mobile phone numbers, LINE accounts, and even photos that could identify “Ako” and “Bko.” They argued that without this information,

“It’s unclear what the truth is.”

In response, Weekly Bunshun’s lawyers expressed their astonishment, saying,

“This is unprecedented.”

“If he didn’t do it, there’s no need to identify anyone.”

Thus, a full-scale war ensued. The next hearing will take place online on June 5th.

“If he claims he’s completely innocent, neither of sexual misconduct nor infidelity, there’s absolutely no need for such a long hiatus. However, sponsors have been dropping out one after another, and he didn’t want to be expelled from the entertainment industry, so he decided to ‘focus on the trial’ and suspend his activities. In fact, it seems he spent time overseas after filing the lawsuit, so he should generally have plenty of free time.” (Women’s magazine reporter)

On the other hand, “senior in self-restraint” Ken Watanabe of “Anjash” is currently hosting “WATABET ~ Sore, Ore no dakara ne? ~” as a solo MC for the first time in four years, which is being exclusively streamed on DMM TV from the 12th. Although he has yet to fully return to terrestrial television, his work is steadily increasing. Recently, he has been able to turn the turmoil into laughter, showing adeptness in handling self-deprecating humor.