TV Insider Unveils the Hidden Side of Celebrities Amidst Praise from Sato Shiori and Matsumoto Wakana
What kind of behavior do popular talents, who are never absent from TV screens, display when the cameras aren’t rolling? Many viewers are likely curious whether these celebrities have a dual persona or not. Even so-called highly likable talents can sometimes exhibit arrogant behavior towards staff on set, making it not uncommon for them to be disliked. Television professionals who work with celebrities daily are revealing their lesser-known sides.
One such talent praised as a wonderful person even when the cameras aren’t rolling is Sato Shiori (34), who serves as an assistant on shows like “Waratte Koraete!” and “Ariyoshi Seminars” (both on Nippon Television).
Sato Shiori’s Divine Response
“Most talents don’t remember the names or faces of the assistant directors (ADs) they work with. Since their job mainly involves supporting roles and there are many staff members involved in a show, it’s understandable. However, Sato remembers every AD she has worked with, even just once. She takes the time to listen to their personal stories. Recently, when an AD announced they were leaving, Sato gently encouraged them, saying, ‘Make sure to rest well, and when you decide what you want to do, go for it.’ She is kind and compassionate to everyone, without exception” (variety show assistant director).
In the July drama “Saionji-san wa Kaji o Shinai” (TBS), where she played the lead role, and in the upcoming October drama “Watashi no Takaramono” (Fuji TV), actress Matsumoto Wakana (40) also has an excellent rapport with the staff.
“Matsumoto doesn’t have that typical celebrity vibe; she feels like a bright, friendly sister you might find anywhere. While some actresses won’t even make eye contact with the staff, she is approachable and engages with them. During breaks, she chats with the crew. There was an incident during a variety show shoot where the staff forgot to start filming, but Matsumoto didn’t get angry. Instead, she encouraged them by saying, ‘Let’s do it again!’ After the shoot, when the staff went to apologize, she said, ‘You don’t need to apologize for that. Let’s work together again!’ She never complains, even when shoots run long. Truly, she is a person of great character” (key station variety show director).
On the other hand, there are celebrities who transform completely the moment the cameras stop. Actress H is one such person.
“While her public image isn’t necessarily poor, her reputation among TV station staff is not good. When she appeared on my show, she would greet the producer but ignore the other staff members who tried to say hello. During a break, when I handed her some water, she displayed her selfishness by saying, ‘I only drink a specific type of water. Hurry and go buy it for me.’ She may appear in commercials and on TV, but if sponsors knew her true colors, they would be shocked” (assistant director of a private music program).
Popular Actor Bullying Co-Stars
Actor K, who has a long history of appearances in films and dramas, is reportedly not well-regarded by his peers.
“There was a situation where he had to co-star with an unknown young comedian in a drama. Noticing that the comedian was nervous, K bluntly said, ‘I wonder why someone like you gets to be in this production.’ This story quickly spread, and comedians from the same agency started to avoid K. While he’s praised in the industry as a skilled actor, he often shows a bad attitude when something bothers him in his personal life, becoming noticeably grumpy and taking it out on the staff. Honestly, I never want to work with him again” (drama production staff).
One cannot silence what others say. The naked king will eventually be weeded out. A true top-tier celebrity treats the behind-the-scenes crew and staff with respect.
PHOTO: Sota Shima
