Erika Sawajiri and A.B.C-Z’s Ryosuke Hashimoto Reportedly Dating—The WEST. Controversy Still Casts a Shadow

They grew closer after co-starring in a stage play

A report has emerged that actress Erika Sawajiri, 40, is romantically involved with Ryosuke Hashimoto, 33, of the popular group A.B.C-Z. The report was published by “NEWS Post Seven” and other outlets on September 9.

In early September, the two reportedly met up at a high-end Italian restaurant in Shibuya, Tokyo, where they enjoyed a relaxed meal together. After settling the bill, a chauffeured car pulled up in front of the restaurant, and the two got in. At that point, Hashimoto was seen putting his arm around Sawajiri’s waist and escorting her into the car.

The two then reportedly drank heavily, including tequila, at a bar frequented by celebrities, where they stayed until early morning. When approached for comment, both of their agencies responded:

“It’s a private matter.”

According to the report, the two hit it off after co-starring in Sawajiri’s stage play “Pygmalion,” in which she starred from January to March. Hashimoto was reportedly the one who actively pursued her, and according to a source in the entertainment industry, he would sometimes excitedly tell people around him:

“My girlfriend is Erika Sawajiri. Can you believe it?”

A sports newspaper entertainment reporter said:

“It’s Sawajiri, so I can’t say I’m particularly surprised that she has a new boyfriend. If anything, my first impression was, ‘So she really is popular,’ especially since her partner is a popular idol seven years younger than her. I don’t think this will cause much damage to her image.”

However, those around the two have been on edge following the report. The morning sports newspapers and television programs all refrained from following up on the story in lockstep. Why are they being so sensitive about it?

“Well, that’s because Hashimoto belongs to STARTO ENTERTAINMENT. Of course they wouldn’t want to turn this into a big deal.”

That is what a person involved with an information program told this site.

Co-starring with Ryuhei Maruyama

STARTO’s predecessor was the former Johnny’s & Associates, which wielded considerable influence over the media and entertainment industries. Even now, as STARTO, the company represents popular groups such as Snow Man, SixTONES, and timelesz, with dramas featuring its talents airing every television season.

“From STARTO’s perspective, a dating report is certainly not something they welcome, and given that the other person is none other than Sawajiri, they appear to be particularly wary. Idols depend on their fans. I imagine the agency would like everyone to take a step back and calm down in light of this report.” (The same information-program source)

What’s more, the agency recently announced that WEST.’s Daiki Shigeoka, 34, had gotten married and had a child, while Takahiro Hamada, 37, had also registered his marriage. Perhaps as a result, the group was thrown into further turmoil, with Ryusei Fujii, 33, and Nozomu Kotaki, 30, leaving the group at the end of August.

“Regardless of which group they belong to, this is certainly not a good time for another dating scandal. That shows just how much the ‘WEST. turmoil’ continues to linger. If fans start asking the agency, ‘What kind of management are you doing?’ you can hardly blame them.” (The same information-program source)

Sawajiri is also set to co-star with Ryuhei Maruyama, 42, of STARTO’s SUPER EIGHT, in the film “The Rose Chain,” scheduled for release in December. According to “Post Seven,” preparations are also underway for a starring drama centered on investment and romance.

“She also made her return to terrestrial television in May with a variety show. This must be an important period for her to see whether she can get back on track as the ‘new Erika Sawajiri.’” (Television network source)

So, what will become of this high-profile couple?