Yoiko’s Masaru Hamaguchi Hit by Power Harassment Scandal “Good Guy” Image Shattered

Halfway through a fight with his former agency

A “Power Harassment Report” Has Emerged About Yoiko’s Masaru Hamaguchi (52).

Hamaguchi left Shochiku Geino, his former agency, on New Year’s Eve last year.

Although he announced,
“We have amicably concluded our exclusive management contract,”

according to NEWS Post Seven, his departure was more of a falling out with Shochiku, allegedly due to his power-harassing behavior towards his managers.

It is reported that he berated staff in front of others, blatantly ignored people, and even gave his comedy partner, Shinya Arino (52), the cold shoulder when Arino called him out on his behavior. Post Seven claims that numerous managers—reportedly in the double digits—could not endure his conduct and resigned, leaving a situation where no one wanted to take on the role.

Among fans, concerns about the duo’s relationship had already been circulating. On their YouTube channel, Yoiko Channel, Hamaguchi was often seen avoiding eye contact with Arino and speaking less than usual. The channel was officially put on hiatus in June 2023, as announced on Arino’s blog. The last video, posted in February last year, featured only Arino.

“Shochiku is a giant in the comedy industry, alongside Yoshimoto, but Hamaguchi’s behavior was apparently an open secret among some insiders. Personally, when I worked with him on set, I didn’t find his demeanor particularly concerning, so I was quite surprised by this report.” (Entertainment industry insider)

At the same time, the timing of the report—surfacing immediately after Hamaguchi left Shochiku—has led some, including the same insider, to suggest that the agency’s side may have had a sense of determination in getting this information out.

Called the “Model Couple” in the entertainment industry

“Based on the article, it’s presumed that the information likely came from someone close to Hamaguchi, suggesting that they were deeply frustrated.” (Entertainment industry insider)

Hamaguchi is a popular comedian known for his appearances on Fuji TV’s Mecha×2 Iketeru! and TV Asahi’s Ikidani! Ōgon Densetsu. He married talent Akina Minami in May 2018 and welcomed their long-awaited first child in July 2022.

“Regarding their child, they experienced the heartbreaking loss of a miscarriage during pregnancy. Despite this, they continued to remain cheerful, and their image as the ‘model couple’ in the entertainment industry was well-liked. At entertainment events, they often happily shared stories about their child. In reality, their marriage was harmonious, and Hamaguchi prioritized his family over work, actively participating in child-rearing.” (Wide na show industry insider)

The recent power harassment report, however, challenges Hamaguchi’s good guy image. Regardless of the truth, the timing of the report—coming at a time when the entertainment industry is already on edge due to Masahiro Nakai’s (52) personal troubles—is particularly painful.

“Right now, the TV industry is very sensitive to scandals. Nakai’s issues have gone beyond personal matters and shaken the entire network. As a result, TV stations are conducting much more thorough ‘background checks’ when casting talents. Hamaguchi is no exception. In that sense, this scandal came at the worst possible time.” (TV station insider)

In Nakai’s case, five regular TV shows had their content replaced or were put on hold, with all his scenes cut. The chaos within the network, especially during the year-end and New Year period, was immense.

“I heard the staff responsible for cutting Nakai’s scenes worked tirelessly without rest. The damage to the station was substantial. While comedians often thrive on being ‘edgy,’ after Nakai’s issue, there’s been a shift to a milder approach. The industry now favors clean talents, both publicly and privately. Anyone who seems to have even a hint of scandal or controversy is increasingly being passed over.” (TV station insider)

On December 28, Hamaguchi posted a picture on Instagram with Arino, showing them with their arms around each other.

“We’re hoping to do more interesting things.” 

He said, expressing enthusiasm for his 35th anniversary in show business. But the future remains uncertain.