SMAP Blackout Controversy: The Hidden Story Behind Goro Inagaki’s Image on 13 Assassins Packaging

Recently, the SMAP photo blackout in the re-broadcast of Fuji TV’s drama Furuhata Ninzaburo sparked controversy.

 

A producer responsible for drama production at a major network commented.

 

“Reports suggested that the issue was due to complex rights matters concerning SMAP or considerations for Takuya Kimura, who remained with the agency. However, the situation is simpler: for re-broadcasts, we need to obtain permission from the participants. Although this is rare, it is a well-known practice.

 

For instance, a popular veteran actress, when she was just starting her career, appeared partially nude in a drama. It is said that this drama will never be re-broadcast. Even if the actress has passed away, if permission was not granted while she was alive, the re-broadcast cannot proceed.” 

 

In the case of SMAP, as you know, it was a five-member group. As mentioned earlier, for a re-broadcast, permission must be obtained from all members. However, even if all members grant permission, it can still be problematic if the group as a whole does not approve. Episodes of Furuhata Ninzaburo featuring SMAP have previously not been re-broadcasted for this reason. 

“As you can infer, this is after the group disbanded. It’s easy to assume that the Johnny & Associates agency at the time did not grant approval. Since SMAP no longer exists and the agency that granted permission back then is also gone, there is no one to consult. Therefore, it is likely that no one will touch on SMAP-related matters in the future.

The late Mery Kitagawa reportedly said she would never forgive the managers who left the agency to start a new one with the three departing members. Consequently, the remaining stakeholders will probably respect that intention.” (producer) 

One of those three, Goro Inagaki, also felt the repercussions. This involved the film 13 Assassins, where the situation was similar to the “SMAP photo blackout” incident.