Photo/Illutration The headquarters of Fuji Television Network Inc. in Tokyo’s Minato Ward (Asahi Shimbun file photo)

More companies are distancing themselves from Fuji Television Network Inc. following a sexual misconduct scandal involving talk show host Masahiro Nakai, with more than 10 sponsors pulling their commercials. 

Seven & i Holdings Co. has announced that it would replace its commercials with those of the Advertising Council Japan (AC Japan), which distributes public service announcements, effective from the afternoon broadcast of Jan. 20. 

A company spokesperson stated that the decision was made after a comprehensive assessment of the recent media reports.

Kao Corp. has also suspended its commercials on the “Mezamashi 8” morning show and other programs since Jan. 18.

The major consumer goods company cited its human rights policy as a key reason for the decision. Kao may resume running the ads depending on the outcome of Fuji Television's investigation on the matter.

Dai-ichi Life Insurance Co. has replaced its ads for the “R4 Street Dance” show with those of AC Japan, starting on Jan. 20.

Similar decisions have been made by the country’s largest businesses, including NTT East Corp., Toyota Motor Corp., Nippon Life Insurance Co. and its subsidiary Hanasaku Life Insurance Co.

Additionally, the Fire and Disaster Management Agency has halted the release of its public relations poster, which was created in collaboration with a network drama series about emergency call center dispatchers.

Multiple publications have accused Nakai, 52, of sexual misconduct toward a woman in her 20s.

According to media reports, a senior Fuji Television employee assisted Nakai in arranging a private dinner with the woman in 2023, which ultimately led to an incident in which he sexually abused her.

Nakai reportedly paid her money to settle the matter.

A household name in Japan, Nakai is a former member of SMAP, one of the most successful boy bands in the country.

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