Nintendo Halts Ads on Japanese TV Over Sex Scandal

Fuji TV, one of Japan's premier television networks, has ceased broadcasting advertisements from Nintendo due to a sexual scandal involving Masahiro Nakai, a prominent TV host and former leader of the SMAP boy band. The controversy erupted in December 2024 when the magazine Josei Seven revealed that a senior Fuji TV employee had arranged a dinner for colleagues. However, according to Weekly Bunshun, only Nakai and a single woman were present at the event. Subsequent reports accused Nakai of sexual assault, and the issue was reportedly resolved out of court with a settlement of 90 million yen, approximately $578,000.

In response to the allegations, Fuji TV has engaged independent legal counsel to conduct a thorough investigation. This move comes amidst concerns regarding the network's alleged informal practice of employing female presenters to entertain celebrities.

Following the scandal, Nintendo has joined the list of over 50 companies, including giants like Toyota and Kao Corporation, that have chosen to sever advertising ties with Fuji TV. In place of Nintendo's ads, Fuji TV will now feature public service announcements from the Advertising Council Japan (AC Japan), a respected non-profit organization.

The Japanese public has responded positively to Nintendo's decision. Many users on the X platform have voiced their support and expressed a desire for companies to maintain high ethical standards in their business practices.