Jiro Sato and Ai Hashimoto Controversy Takes an Unexpected Turn: Travis Japan’s Kaito Nakamura Caught in the Fallout

Another harassment allegation

Actor Jiro Sato (57) is at the center of a major controversy over alleged harassment. Rather than moving toward a resolution, the issue is reportedly spreading in an unexpected direction.

The incident began with the April drama “Fuufu Betsusei Keiji (Married Couple, Different Surnames Detective),” which aired on Fuji TV and starred Sato and actress Ai Hashimoto (30) in dual leading roles. The two played detectives who conceal from those around them that they are married and work together as partners while retaining different surnames. However, Hashimoto had previously experienced harassment from a co-star and had therefore placed restrictions on physical contact.

Sato was reportedly angered after learning about this afterward. According to the account of the incident, he stormed into Hashimoto’s dressing room and said things such as, “You shouldn’t have accepted a role as a married couple.” A sports newspaper entertainment reporter says that some fans of STARTO ENTERTAINMENT (formerly Johnny & Associates) are watching the controversy with mixed feelings.

“Umi Nakamura (29) of Travis Japan appeared in ‘Fuufu Betsusei Keiji.’ He played Kizuna Ikeda, who has feelings for Asuka, played by Hashimoto. Following the uproar surrounding Sato, a promotional video featuring Sato and Nakamura that the drama’s official X (formerly Twitter) account had posted was widely circulated. Because it included scenes in which Sato lightly hit Nakamura on the face and head, fans criticized it, saying, ‘Wouldn’t this count as harassment?’ and ‘Don’t use Kaito to bring Sato down.’” (Sports newspaper entertainment reporter)

In light of the controversy, the release of “Fuufu Betsusei Keiji” on DVD and Blu-ray is almost certain to face difficulties. Fans who had been looking forward to bonus content such as behind-the-scenes footage have expressed their frustration, with comments including, “Uminchu (Nakamura’s nickname) is getting dragged into this too. I really enjoyed the drama.”

“Nakamura himself mentioned filming ‘Fuufu Betsusei Keiji’ on his members-only FAMILY CLUB web blog. In his April 7 entry, he began by saying, ‘I’m having a lot of fun every time,’ and reported that he had told Sato he had watched his film ‘Bakudan’ (released in 2025). He also revealed that he would talk with the cast about their favorite foods during breaks.

“It has only been in the past two years that he has been getting more work in television dramas. He appeared to feel that he was gaining confidence from this production, saying that he was able to perform in a good atmosphere of tension. In a June 6 blog post as well, he wrote, ‘I’m having a lot of fun with the filming itself. I’ve been given a really valuable opportunity to learn a lot.’” (Drama production staff member)

Sato and Hashimoto, Fuji TV, as well as their fellow cast members and the fans supporting them, have all suffered considerable damage as a result of this controversy.