Kimura Takuya’s Secret Trip: FRIDAY’s 40th Anniversary Scoop

Yoshimoto Kogyo ″Dark Business″ Issue

July 5, 2007 issue

In 2019, a shocking scandal erupted when FRIDAY exposed that comedian Hiroyuki Miyasako (54, then 49) of the comedy duo “Ameagari Kesshitai” and other comedians attended a year-end party hosted by a fraudulent group, where they performed impressions and songs, even posing for a commemorative photo. This “dark business” involvement sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.

The ties to anti-social forces raised concerns, and the mismanagement within Yoshimoto Kogyo, the talent agency, was brought to light. In response to FRIDAY’s direct inquiry, Miyasako initially denied receiving money, claiming “I didn’t get any money,” but later, in a press conference, he admitted to receiving a 1 million yen payment.

As a result of the scandal, Miyasako’s contract with Yoshimoto Kogyo was terminated. Many, like Ryo Tamura (52, then 47) from “London Boots 1-Go 2-Go,” had to spend years before returning to full-fledged activities, highlighting the immense consequences of their reckless actions.

 

Kishu Don Juan Incident

May 21, 2009 issue

“I didn’t do it.”

Before her arrest, Saki Sudo (28, then 25) was seen smiling as she answered reporters’ questions. In May 2018, the death of wealthy businessman Kosuke Nozaki (77), known as “Kishu no Don-phan,” due to acute methamphetamine poisoning, drew significant attention. A photo of Sudo in front of Nozaki’s luxury car was taken, and in April 2021, she was arrested on charges including murder.

Sudo is suspected of intentionally administering methamphetamine to Nozaki. During the trial, which began in September at the Wakayama District Court, it was revealed that the defendant had been in contact with drug dealers and had researched methamphetamine before the incident. However, Sudo and her defense team continue to deny the charges, claiming an alibi on the day of the event to argue for her innocence.

The verdict is expected on December 12.

This information is from the FRIDAY November 22-29, 2024 issue.