Fuji TV President Apologizes for Nakai Sex Scandal, Announces Probe

Fuji Television President Apologizes for Sex Scandal Involving Masahiro Nakai

Koichi Minato, president of Fuji Television Network Inc., held a news conference in Tokyo on January 17th to address a sex scandal involving popular TV personality Masahiro Nakai. Minato expressed deep regret for the incident and the company's delayed response, stating, "I apologize for the great concern caused to viewers and other concerned parties, and for the fact that the company has not been able to provide an explanation until now."

The scandal came to light after a U.S. activist shareholder sent a letter to Fuji Media Holdings Inc., parent company of Fuji Television, calling for an independent investigation. In response, Minato announced the formation of an investigation committee led by a third-party lawyer, emphasizing that he himself would be subject to the investigation.

The incident reportedly occurred in June 2023, when Nakai and a woman were the only attendees at a planned dinner for Fuji Television Network employees. According to Minato, a company employee noticed a change in the woman's condition after the encounter and recognized the sensitivity of the situation. The company prioritized the woman's well-being, arranging for her to see a physician and following the guidance of a specialist. They also respected her wish to return to work without making the matter public.

Nakai issued a statement of apology on his management office's website on January 9th, acknowledging the incident but denying some of the reports and emphasizing that no one else was involved. Since the scandal broke, TV broadcasters have removed Nakai from their programs. Minato confirmed that Fuji Television did not inform its sponsors about the incident until it was reported in the media.

The company also released a statement on December 27th, 2024, clarifying that a company employee mentioned in the weekly magazines' reports was not involved in setting up the meeting or had any knowledge of it. The statement further stated that the employee was not absent on the day of the meeting.

The investigation committee is expected to provide a thorough and independent assessment of the incident and its handling by Fuji Television. The company's actions and the outcome of the investigation will likely have significant implications for Nakai's career and the reputation of Fuji Television.