The leadership of Fuji TV has undergone a significant change as both the chairman, Shuji Kano, and the president and CEO, Koichi Minato, have resigned. This decision comes in the wake of a sexual assault scandal involving a dinner event organized by the network in 2023. The incident, which allegedly involved a former member of the pop idol group SMAP assaulting a woman, has led to an independent investigation launched by Fuji Media Holdings (FMH), the parent company of Fuji TV. The allegations surfaced in December 2024 through magazine reports, leading to widespread criticism and loss of credibility for the network.

Resignation and Apologies from Top Executives

In response to the mounting pressure, top executives at Fuji TV have taken responsibility for mishandling the situation. During a press conference held in Tokyo, both Kano and Minato expressed deep regret for their inadequate handling of the case, acknowledging failures in corporate governance and human rights awareness. They apologized for damaging the network's credibility and failing to provide proper support to the victim. The resignation signifies a critical step toward addressing the issues raised by this scandal.

Kano and Minato emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability. They acknowledged that their initial responses were insufficient and pledged to ensure that such incidents would not be repeated. The executives also highlighted the need for improved corporate governance and a stronger commitment to protecting human rights within the organization. Their resignation is seen as a necessary move to restore trust and rebuild the reputation of Fuji TV.

Investigation and Impact on Fuji TV

Facing an exodus of viewers and advertisers, Fuji TV and its parent company, FMH, are now under intense scrutiny. An independent probe has been initiated to investigate any involvement of Fuji TV and FMH in the incident surrounding the 2023 dinner. The investigation will also explore whether similar incidents occurred and if there was any cover-up following the alleged assault. The probe aims to uncover the full extent of the issue and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.

The scandal has had a profound impact on Fuji TV, one of Japan's largest television networks. The loss of audience and advertisers underscores the severity of the situation. FMH has issued a statement apologizing to stakeholders for the inconvenience and concerns caused by the recent reports. The company is committed to conducting a thorough investigation and taking appropriate actions based on the findings. The goal is to regain public trust and reinforce the network's commitment to ethical standards and responsible behavior.