In recent months, フジテレビ (Fuji Media Holdings), a prominent Japanese broadcaster, has been at the center of a significant scandal involving allegations of sexual misconduct by one of its former star presenters, 中居 正広 (なかい まさひろ). This controversy has led to executive resignations, a mass exodus of advertisers, and a broader discussion about corporate governance and accountability within Japan’s entertainment industry.
The Incident: Allegations Against 中居 正広
In December 2024, reports emerged alleging that 中居 正広, a former member of the popular boy band SMAP and a well-known television host, had sexually assaulted a woman in her twenties during a dinner party in June 2023. The dinner was reportedly organised by a フジテレビ employee. 中居 acknowledged reaching a settlement with the woman but denied any violent conduct. He expressed remorse for the incident and its repercussions.
Weekly magazine 週刊文春 reported in December that 中居 had reached a 90 million yen settlement with a woman over the alleged sex assault at a 2023 dinner party. He acknowledged “a trouble” and a settlement, while denying any violence, in a statement earlier this month.
The magazine goes further to state that allegedly フジテレビ has long exploited its female announcers to entertain stars like 中居.
Immediate Fallout: Advertisers Withdraw
The scandal prompted swift reactions from major corporations. Over 50 companies, including industry giants like Toyota, Nissan, McDonald’s, and Shiseido, suspended or withdrew their advertisements from フジテレビ. This mass withdrawal not only signaled a loss of revenue but also indicated a significant blow to the network’s reputation.
Executive Resignations and Corporate Response
Facing mounting pressure, フジテレビ’s leadership took decisive action. On January 27, 2025, both 嘉納 修治 (かのう しゅうじ), Chairman of Fuji Media Holdings (the parent company of フジテレビ), and 港 浩一 (みなと こういち), President of フジテレビ, resigned from their positions. Their departures were seen as an acknowledgment of the company’s mishandling of the situation and a step toward restoring public trust.
In an effort to address the allegations comprehensively, フジテレビ announced the formation of an independent investigative committee composed of external lawyers. The findings of this investigation are anticipated by the end of March 2025. The company has pledged to implement necessary reforms based on the committee’s recommendations.
Broader Implications for Japan’s Entertainment Industry
The scandal is not an isolated incident but part of a broader reckoning within Japan’s entertainment sector. It follows other high-profile cases, such as the dissolution of Johnny & Associates after allegations against its founder, Johnny Kitagawa. These events have ignited discussions about systemic issues, including power dynamics, harassment, and the need for more robust corporate governance.
The Future of フジテレビ
フジテレビ now faces the formidable task of rebuilding its reputation and regaining the trust of both the public and its business partners. The network’s commitment to an independent investigation and leadership changes are initial steps toward this goal. However, the effectiveness of these measures will depend on the transparency of the investigation, the implementation of recommended reforms, and a demonstrated commitment to cultural change within the organisation.
The scandal also underscores the importance of proactive corporate governance and the need for media companies to foster environments where misconduct is neither tolerated nor concealed. As the situation evolves, stakeholders will be closely monitoring フジテレビ’s actions to assess its dedication to meaningful change.
In conclusion, the recent events at フジテレビ serve as a critical juncture for the company and potentially a catalyst for broader reforms within Japan’s entertainment industry. The outcomes of the ongoing investigations and the network’s subsequent actions will likely have lasting implications for its future and the industry’s approach to handling misconduct allegations.
