Maki Yoko Sparks Heated Debate with Iwahashi
The series of incidents caused by former comedy duo “Plus/Minus” member Yoshimasa Iwahashi in February this year seems to have settled down, but the “aftereffects” have not completely disappeared.
It all started when Iwahashi spotted Maki Yoko, who appeared on the show, and posted on X saying, “Oh, she’s the one who shot me with an air gun.” Initially, he didn’t mention her name in the first post, but soon publicly disclosed it. In response, Maki updated her own social media to refute his claims. This led Iwahashi to retaliate again on X, igniting a heated exchange.
The controversy, which escalated with participation from both followers and viewers, might have been contained if it had remained just between the two. However, Iwahashi’s continual exposure of harassment in the entertainment industry on social media led to his contract being terminated by Yoshimoto Kogyo, his agency. Furthermore, the incident took an unexpected turn.
“Hollywood Zakoshisyoh, known for his exaggerated impersonations, featured Maaki’s video. It became hugely popular, not only boosting Zakoshisyoh’s views but also significantly increasing the views of Maki’s original video. However, this had the biggest impact on Maki.
Zakoshisyoh deleted the video and publicly apologized, but Maaki’s health deteriorated to the point of hospitalization, and she had to withdraw from the planned drama” (senior executive from a prestigious entertainment agency)
Three months have passed since then. Iwahashi, forced into hiatus from his activities, recently updated his YouTube channel, ‘Iwahashi Hitori Channel.’ While answering questions from fans, he showed enthusiasm for returning to television. His demeanor appeared bright, without any lingering effects from the controversy.
“He hasn’t been arrested for drug-related crimes or accused of indecent behavior, so I don’t think sponsors would issue a ban against him. However, for comedians dismissed by Yoshimoto seeking a TV comeback, as seen in the case of Hiroyuki Miyasako, it’s not so simple.” (show production insider)
