TOKYO (TR) – Nippon Television Network said last week that Taichi Kokubun, a member of the all-male group TOKIO, will be removed from the network’s popular “The Tetsuwan Dash” variety show due to compliance violations.
On June 20, NTV Hiroyuki Fukuda spoke to reporters from the network’s headquarters in the capital. He explained that Kokubun, 50, had been involved in multiple compliance-related issues in the past, which led to his departure from “The Tetsuwan Dash,” reports Sports Nippon (June 20).
NTV became aware of the incident on May 27. Fukuda also said, “We have decided to have him step down as we have become aware of multiple problematic acts in the past.” He added, “I cannot comment on the timing due to privacy reasons.”
When asked if it was sexual or power harassment, he said, “I cannot answer that.” However, he did say that the case did not warrant criminal charges, have any connection to NTV’s employees or have a link to organized crime.
That same day, Kokubun apologized to his fans and announced that he would be taking an indefinite hiatus from showbiz. “The cause of all this is a lack of awareness of the position I’m in, my naivety and complacency, and my inadequacy in my actions, he said.
Starto Entertainment, Kokubun’s agency, also announced the suspension.
Six programs on television and radio
Kokubun made his debut in TOKIO in 1994. Before the suspension, Kokubun appeared on six programs on television and radio. He is also a pitchman in a number of commercials.
For “The Tetsuwan Dash,” Kokubun and other members of Tokio carried out farming and other activities in remote locations, including Fukushima Prefecture.
Fukuda said the broadcaster will offer an explanation to people living in rural areas who have supported the show.
