Kenji Tamura Voices Discontent Over Hitoshi Matsumoto’s Extended Hiatus Amid Claims of ‘Misunderstanding’

Kenji Tamura, a comedian currently on a temporary return to Japan and residing in the United States, spoke in front of reporters about Hitoshi Matsumoto of “Downtown,” who is embroiled in a legal dispute with “Weekly Bunshun” regarding sexual assault allegations.

On the October 12 broadcast of “Seyanen!” (MBS), Tomizawa Masaya and Joichiro Fujiwara from “Naniwa Danshi” were seen attending a Dodgers game in Los Angeles. A planned VTR featuring Tamura’s LA home and recommended restaurants was also aired.

Tamura made a rare appearance in the Osaka studio, and it seems there are additional stock footage segments that weren’t included, indicating that they will be aired over several weeks.

 

Something should be done about Japan.

Tamura, a member of the Matsumoto family, had previously appeared on the Kansai local variety show “Matsumoto-ke no Kyujitsu” (Asahi Broadcasting). Amid reports of Matsumoto’s sexual misconduct allegations, there were also reports about a hotel drinking party organized by Tamura.

While Tamura had touched on the incident through social media and radio from the U.S., he took the opportunity during his temporary return to Japan on October 13 to respond to reporters in Osaka.

Regarding Matsumoto, who is currently on hiatus from his entertainment activities, he stated:

“I think everyone is hoping for his quick return. To be honest, it’s truly unfounded. We don’t care about ourselves, but there’s 100% nothing wrong with him.”

Although he did not mention Matsumoto’s name directly, he denied the allegations. Furthermore, he expressed his dissatisfaction.

“This can change a person’s life and lead to losing jobs; I really think Japan needs to do something about this. It’s absurd. Unless it involves police action, which it doesn’t, this is just wrong. It’s taking too long.”

He expressed his dissatisfaction with the absurd treatment.

During his current visit to Japan, he also mentioned,

“I have various consultations, and I have been in contact with Matsumoto.”

 

 

While Tamura is outraged by the hiatus of his big brother whom he deeply respects, comments on social media and articles include:

“It’s a huge misunderstanding on Tamura’s part when Matsumoto has publicly stated that his work is on hold.”

“Regardless of agreement, a married person engaging in flashy womanizing is already out as a television talent.”

“There are victims suffering because of Matsumoto’s actions. Tamura’s comments are inappropriate.”

“Instead of skirting the issue with half-hearted interviews, I want them to hold a press conference and answer questions honestly.”

These comments reflect a growing sense of discomfort among the public.

No mention is made of the attending comedian.

“While discussing that ‘Japan is strange,’ I believe that Western countries are far stricter regarding allegations of sexual misconduct. As the victim is cooperating with Bunshun to report her case, it lacks credibility when the person who organized the drinking party says things like ‘100% not true’ or ‘it’s taking too long.’ Although he denies it, the suspicion remains that Matsumoto arranged for women to accompany him. Matsumoto has not publicly mentioned his junior colleagues, like Kazutaka Ozawa from ‘Speed Wagon’ or Kenji Tamura. If he truly had nothing to hide, he should have been the first to protect his juniors, but instead, he hasn’t held any press conferences and suddenly sued Bunshun.”

Matsumoto’s lawsuit has its second preparatory hearing set for November 11, but it’s said that if it goes to the Supreme Court without settlement, it could take about five years. It might indeed be too long for the 61-year-old Matsumoto.

However, it’s important to remember that his decision to say nothing and withdraw from the public eye, stating he wants to focus on the trial, is ultimately Matsumoto’s own choice.