STARTO President Race: Kimutaku’s Chances and Where Higashiyama & Inohara Stand

Can Mr. Fukuda really step down?

On June 13, it was learned that Atsushi Fukuda, president of STARTO ENTERTAINMENT (hereafter referred to as STARTO Co.), is preparing to step down at the end of his term in late June.

However, for STARTO, the timing of this announcement could not be worse.

On June 20, Taichi Kokubun (50) of TOKIO announced an indefinite suspension of his entertainment activities. In response, STARTO, which has a group agent contract with TOKIO, stated via TBS NEWS DIG (June 23 release) that it would not be holding a press conference.

On June 17, a new book compiling interviews with Kazunari Ninomiya (42) of Arashi, titled “Dogmatic and Prejudiced” (Shueisha), was published. In it, Ninomiya mentions Johnny Kitagawa by name and says, “I want him to apologize,” a comment that was widely highlighted in media reports.

Furthermore, on July 18, a new book titled “Last Interview: 47 Hours with Julie Keiko Fujishima”, covering the former president of the old Johnny’s office, Julie Keiko Fujishima (58), will be released by Shinchosha. This book is also certain to spark significant discussion, both positive and negative.

“The incoming president will have to deal with these issues immediately. Among industry insiders, there are rising doubts: ‘In this situation, can Mr. Fukuda really step down?’” (Editor of a women’s weekly magazine)

In December 2023, Fukuda stepped into the presidency of STARTO—essentially picking chestnuts out of the fire—and was partly praised for taking on such a difficult role. However, the restructuring of the Junior groups and the dissolution of KAT-TUN were not well received by fans, and resentment toward Fukuda has yet to subside.

“Talents have been allowed to choose between management and agent contracts or even benefit from both. While that’s brought more freedom overall, it has also led to a string of talent departures and a marriage rush—and fans have reacted with disappointment, saying ‘We’ve been left behind.’” (Idol magazine journalist)

The reason why Noriyuki Higashiyama’s name isn’t being mentioned is obvious

While Katsuaki Suzuki (66), former president of TV Nishinippon, has been mentioned as Fukuda’s successor, the decision has not been finalized. Perhaps because of this, the name of Takuya Kimura (52) has suddenly emerged as a strong candidate for the next president.

Naturally, in terms of order, it would make sense for Yoshihiko Inohara (49), the current vice president, or Noriyuki Higashiyama (58), former entertainer and current president of SMILE-UP., to take the position. However, for some reason, their names haven’t come up at all. Why might that be?

“Mr. Higashiyama has been recognized for his accomplishments, particularly in resolving compensation issues for victims of Johnny Kitagawa’s sexual abuse, so it wouldn’t be surprising if he were chosen. But in truth, Higashiyama isn’t well-liked by his juniors. There are no stories of him going out drinking with them, and because of the large age gap, younger groups and Johnny’s Jr. talents don’t seem to consult him about anything. That’s probably why no one from within the company is recommending him.” (Reporter covering the former Johnny’s agency)

What about Inohara?

He’s received strong praise from both inside and outside the company for his efforts in auditioning and training Junior members.

“Once, about 20 Junior talents came to watch a Tonisen live show. Inohara brought them up on stage and called out every single one of their names without making a mistake. Even we reporters couldn’t memorize all of them, but he had them all down pat. The audience gave a huge round of applause. However, the reorganization of the Junior system received backlash from fans, with comments like ‘Put it back the way it was!’ or ‘What are you thinking?’ Because of that, we’ve heard he now feels a bit hesitant about staying involved in management.

There are even rumors that he may retire from acting, especially now that the drama series Tokuso 9 (TV Asahi) has ended. But that doesn’t mean he’s stepping away entirely.

His role as MC of Adomachi Tengoku (TV Tokyo) is well-received, and his streetwalking segment with a genius large dog in Waratte Koraete! (NTV) has had a great impact. His title as a veteran handsome guy hasn’t gone unnoticed, and within the industry, people say, ‘It’d be a waste to keep Inocchi behind the scenes.’ Inohara himself probably wants to continue as a variety talent.” (The same reporter as above)

It’s hard to imagine him focusing primarily on behind-the-scenes work

So then, how likely is it that Kimura will take the position?

Columnist Miho Yamada analyzes as follows:

“Kimura-san has been putting his thoughts into action—mentioning the revival of the Countdown Concert on New Year’s Eve, and making surprise appearances on junior groups’ shows. He’s also known for his broad connections in the entertainment industry and his agility. I’ve heard that President Fukuda and Kimura-san got along very well and that he even acted as a kind of advisor. If someone were to carry on the Fukuda philosophy, I think Kimura-san would be the ideal choice as the next president.

That said, I don’t believe he would focus solely on behind-the-scenes work. He will likely continue his acting career as usual. Still, if there is significant support for him within the company, even if he doesn’t become the next president, it’s highly possible he’ll take on some kind of position—perhaps as a number two, like a playing manager.

And it’s entirely conceivable that, before long, the company could move toward a dual leadership structure with both Inohara-san and Kimura-san at the top.”

If such a structure were truly to come to fruition, it would certainly inspire hope for STARTO’s future.