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.”