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.