Fuma Kikuchi Speaks Out: Not Bullying, But Brotherhood — The Truth Behind the Type-Ro Audition

New members “discovered” by female fans

Fuma Kikuchi (29), Shori Sato (28), and So Matsushima (27) of timelesz (formerly Sexy Zone) held a new member audition, Timeless Project (commonly known as “Taipro”), over a span of 10 months with the concept of finding new companions. The audition concluded on February 15, bringing in five new members: Masao Hashimoto (25), Takuto Teranishi (30), Shuto Inomata (23), Daiki Shinozuka (22), and Yoshitaka Hara (29). With these additions, timelesz is now an eight-member group.

“Initially, many fans opposed the idea of recruiting new members through an audition. Some strongly believed the group should continue as a trio, while others insisted that if they had to add members, they should choose from hardworking Johnny’s Jr. talents. However, Taipro ultimately became a social phenomenon and a massive success, significantly expanding their fanbase.

In particular, Teranishi had been steadily pursuing an acting career within STARTO ENTERTAINMENT’s acting division before joining Taipro at the fourth screening stage, where he was discovered by many female fans. Meanwhile, Hara was formerly part of the unit Uchu Six and was a close associate of Ren Meguro (28) from Snow Man. He also co-starred in Trillion Game (TBS), and while he was already popular, his visibility has skyrocketed since joining the project,” a TV magazine writer commented.

The other new members also have unique backgrounds—Shinozuka is a current university student with no dance experience, Hashimoto previously worked at a yakiniku restaurant, and Inomata has experience in the painting industry. Since the final selection, media outlets have extensively covered Taipro and timelesz. However, some articles have been critical of Kikuchi.

“During Taipro, Kikuchi, as one of the senior members, took on the role of a mentor, often using harsh words to push and motivate the participants. However, in recent years, he has honed his variety show skills through programs like Genuinely Thought Up by Celebrities! Prank GP (Fuji TV) and Ninosan (NTV). As a result, he frequently jokes around with the new members. In particular, his teasing about Hara’s appearance—something Hara himself takes lightly—has been perceived by some fans as bullying, with many expressing concern, saying, ‘Poor Hara,’” the writer added.

Kikuchi is the embodiment of honor and bravery

However, many in the industry believe that the backlash against Kikuchi is misplaced. It is widely said that his willingness to go nude on Dokkiri GP or take on bungee jumping challenges was all for the sake of increasing the group’s visibility.

“He may seem cool and mischievous at first glance, but he has always been incredibly supportive of his peers and juniors since his trainee days. In short, he’s the embodiment of honor and loyalty. He is well known for inviting junior members who struggle to debut to perform at his solo concerts, giving them exposure to the media. His teasing of Hara is also likely an act of affection, aimed at helping him showcase his personality.

About ten years ago, there was a period when Matsushima had significantly fewer job offers. I once saw Kikuchi bowing his head to TV staff, saying, ‘Right now, our Matsushima is willing to do anything, so please consider him.’ And in 2020, before leaving Sexy Zone, when Marius Yo (24) was rushed to the hospital due to health issues, Kikuchi was the first one to arrive and stay by his side,” said a staff member from a commercial TV variety show.

That being said, Kikuchi wasn’t always a model performer. In his early debut days, he was often labeled as the least engaged member when appearing on variety shows.

“There was a time when he would bring his phone to the studio and scroll through it during VTR segments. Even when the camera cut to him in the reaction frame, he barely reacted at all. After the recording, we would review the footage and ask, ‘Wait, did Fuma even say anything today?’ We had to struggle to find any notable moment from him. It made us wonder if he just wasn’t interested in doing variety shows.

But a few years later, when I saw him going all out to make people laugh on Dokkiri GP, I was genuinely shocked. Sexy Zone went through a lot—members leaving, returning, and taking breaks—so I believe he changed his mindset, thinking, ‘I have to step up and do something about this,’” recalled a veteran variety show staff member.

 

His long-standing reputation as a good guy has also been exposed

On February 17, Kikuchi appeared solo on Shabekuri 007 (Nippon TV). From a surprise reunion with his first love to live testimonies from his kindergarten and high school teachers, as well as a handwritten letter from his mother, he revealed much of his private past—exposing the fact that he had always been a good guy.

Then, on February 21, the new members of timelesz gathered on Nino-san, where Kikuchi is a regular. Kazunari Ninomiya (41), who is familiar with Hara and Teranishi, playfully teased them, and at one point even dozed off during filming, citing, “It’s a three-episode recording.” It was Kikuchi who stepped in to provide follow-up comments and keep things flowing.

Although the newly formed timelesz does not have an official leader, Kikuchi—beloved by many and skilled in handling external relations—will undoubtedly take the lead in guiding the group. There’s no doubt that timelesz is set to dominate the entertainment industry this year.