Mei Nagano and Kei Tanaka: How Affair Rumors Are Shaping Public Perception of Two Relatable Stars

Even for Mei Nagano (25) and Kei Tanaka (40), currently embroiled in an affair scandal, it seems there may be those willing to give them a second chance.

After disappearing from terrestrial TV following Shūkan Bunshun’s June 2020 exposé of his affair in a multipurpose restroom, Ken Watabe has in recent years found steady work in video projects produced by TV producer Nobuyuki Sakuma. In fact, in the new Netflix comedy Batō-mura released on May 13 this year, he shone in a leading role.

Might there also be industry insiders ready to extend a hand to Tanaka and Nagano, once they’ve atoned? Here’s what those at the scene are saying.

It’s been about a month and a half since Shūkan Bunshun reported on Tanaka and Nagano’s forbidden romance on April 23. While both of their agencies have denied the affair, on May 7 a vivid exchange of LINE messages between the two was revealed, and public criticism shows no sign of letting up.

However, writer A — who has interviewed many actors for entertainment magazines — commented, “Tanaka has an extremely good reputation within the industry, so he might make a faster comeback.”

I would like to work with him again

“Among writers who mainly work for magazines and web media, Tanaka’s godlike attitude is well known. Despite being a hugely popular actor constantly busy with dramas and films, he never cuts corners — even for a 10-minute interview that’ll only get a single page. He answers every question with a smile right up until the last second.

I once had him take on a sea fishing challenge for a magazine feature. Tanaka flatly refused to fake a catch and eagerly enjoyed genuine fishing more than anyone else. When you witness someone so dedicated and generous, regardless of a publication’s prominence or audience size, it’s only natural to think, ‘I want to work with him again.’”

In fact, the scandal’s impact on Tanaka appears relatively mild. His stage play A Cheerful Ghost sold out immediately, and the variety show Chidori Kamaitachi Golden Hour (NTV), which had been recorded before Shūkan Bunshun’s report, aired as scheduled. While he’s already paid a hefty price with commercials for Suntory and Kikkoman pulled, the damage seems less severe compared to Nagano, whose image as a pure, wholesome figure was stronger.

Entertainment journalist Yuka Sakaguchi comments:

“Tanaka’s reputation for bad drinking habits has been long known, but that sloppy yet lovable character had already become part of his persona. What’s more, he remained hugely popular with women because his imperfections made him feel relatable and human. So even with this scandal, his character hasn’t fundamentally changed. Like Ryūji Harada — who continued landing commercial deals even after an affair scandal — Tanaka may well find companies willing to work with him again.”

“Please wrap this up in 10 minutes.”

Meanwhile, criticism toward Nagano shows no signs of letting up. She has stepped down from her role in the 2026 NHK Taiga drama Toyotomi Brothers! and withdrawn as host of Nippon Broadcasting’s All Night Nippon X, which aired every Monday. Her commercial contracts have collapsed, and it’s clear the damage she’s suffered is far greater than Tanaka’s. What caused this stark difference in outcomes?

Writer A, mentioned earlier, explains:

“Unfortunately, Nagano’s industry reputation isn’t very good. About a year ago, I was promised a 30-minute interview with her for a magazine feature. But right before it started, we were told, ‘Please finish in 10 minutes.’

It seemed like they wanted to send her home early — there was no room for negotiation, and we were kicked out after just 10 minutes. We had to scramble to restructure the magazine layout. I’m not sure if it was her own decision, but many in the media have long questioned the way she’s been treated like a princess.”

Nagano has also shown a bold side — suddenly dyeing her hair a flashy platinum blonde and riding around on her beloved Harley-Davidson in private. While it’s understandable that her agency, keen to protect the image of its biggest star, might try to handle her with extra care, if that approach has earned her a negative reputation in the industry, her future may be rockier than Tanaka’s.