Nintendo Halts Ads on Japanese TV Amid 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 renowned TV host and former leader of the SMAP boy band. The controversy erupted in December 2024 when the magazine Josei Seven disclosed that a high-ranking Fuji TV employee had arranged a dinner for colleagues. Subsequent reports from Weekly Bunshun revealed that only Nakai and a single woman attended the event, leading to allegations of sexual assault against Nakai. The matter was reportedly resolved out of court with a settlement of 90 million yen, approximately $578,000.

In response to the scandal, Fuji TV has engaged independent lawyers to probe deeper into the situation. This action was prompted by growing concerns over the network's alleged practice of employing female presenters to entertain celebrities, a practice that has come under scrutiny.

Nintendo has joined a list of 50 other companies, including giants like Toyota and Kao Corporation, that have previously severed ties with Fuji TV. As a result, Nintendo's advertising slots on the network will now be filled by public service announcements from the Advertising Council Japan (AC Japan), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting social welfare.

The Japanese public has responded positively to Nintendo's decision. On the X platform, numerous users have voiced their support for Nintendo and expressed hopes that businesses will continue to prioritize ethical standards in their operations.