Showbiz on Edge After Sexual Harassment and Hotel Incident Expose

Behind Fuji TV’s redo press conference

On January 27, a press conference held by Fuji TV lasted over 10 hours, during which reporters asked sharp questions regarding Masahiro Nakai’s (52) trouble with a woman and the internal response at the station.

In the background, on the same day, TBS Radio announced that Hiroshi Ikushima (74), a freelance announcer, would be stepping down from his regular positions on two programs: “Ikushima Hiroshi no Ohayou Teishoku” and “Ikushima Hiroshi no Ohayou Icchokusen.”

Ikushima’s agency acknowledged the issues, stating:

“We acknowledge that there were acts such as harsh remarks towards the program production staff and the sending of inappropriate images published on the internet, and we recognize that a lack of awareness regarding power harassment and sexual harassment led to these incidents.”

They admitted to the facts of power harassment and sexual harassment and announced an indefinite suspension of his entertainment activities.

“Ikushima-san has been a valuable contributor to TBS. To announce his departure without an opportunity for clarification on the same day as the broadcast, especially when it’s not a criminal case, is something rarely heard of. This shows how seriously TBS took the issue,” said a sports newspaper reporter.

Amid the Nakai-Fuji TV issue, various TV networks conducted internal investigations. They are reportedly probing not only internal staff but also talent and staff relations with external partners to see if there have been any inappropriate relationships.

“On January 28, an ABC TV executive resigned after being caught misusing entertainment expenses. Both station staff and talent are extremely anxious about the ongoing investigations. It’s not just about sexual harassment, power harassment, or financial problems; the stations seem to be taking a thorough approach to rooting out any wrongdoing, using this moment as an opportunity to cleanse any misconduct. The rapid withdrawal of sponsors from Fuji TV has likely become a significant trauma for the company,” said a key network insider.

Meanwhile, former announcer-turned-YouTuber, Kanon Aoki, who gained attention for exposing past sexual abuse, made another new accusation.