Taichi Kokubun Steps Down from TV Show Amid Misconduct Allegations

Taichi Kokubun, a well-known entertainer, is stepping down from his television show due to serious misconduct. Nippon Television Network Corp. made the announcement, but did not reveal the specifics of the allegations against him.

Nippon TV President Hiroyuki Fukuda addressed the media after an emergency board meeting, expressing regret over the situation. He described the matter as serious and unfortunate, but refrained from providing details, citing privacy concerns.

Kokubun, aged 50, also issued a public apology, stating that he would be suspending all entertainment activities. He attributed the situation to his own lack of awareness, complacency, poor judgment, and inadequate behavior.

Kokubun gained prominence as a member of the boy band Tokio and later transitioned into acting and hosting roles. His sudden departure will require broadcasters to adjust schedules or potentially cancel six shows in which he was involved.

Nippon TV became aware of the issue on May 27 after receiving information about Kokubun's actions. An investigation, which included interviews and the involvement of a third-party lawyer, led to the decision to remove Kokubun from "The! Tetsuwan! Dash!!," a long-running reality show he co-hosted. The broadcaster confirmed that the program would continue.

The president emphasized that the issue concerned an individual cast member and not the show itself. He acknowledged the broadcaster's responsibility for continuing to cast someone with potential issues.

This situation arises amid increasing scrutiny of harassment and human rights violations within the entertainment industry. Earlier this year, another prominent TV host, Masahiro Nakai, retired following accusations of sexual abuse. Both Kokubun and Nakai have ties to a major showbiz agency that has been at the center of a significant sexual abuse scandal.