Burning Production, one of Japan's long-standing entertainment companies, has recently experienced significant change with the appointment of A-ko, wife of newly instated president Zhou Fang Zhangxian, as its Vice President. The transition has sparked considerable public interest and criticism due to A-ko's lack of experience and the nature of her marriage to Zhangxian, who is embarking on his fifth marital relationship.
Following the health decline of the company's founder, Zhou Fang (84), management was passed to his son, Zhangxian (49). Zhangxian, who married A-ko (28) just days before her appointment, faced immense scrutiny over the decision, leading many to question the wisdom of appointing someone with no managerial background to the number two role within the company.
"I had no choice but to rely on my wife because I had no one else to turn to," Zhangxian remarked during a recent interview. His sentiments appear to stem from the reality of his familial situation, where several close relatives have passed or are no longer involved.
A-ko, who is also recognized professionally as a DJ, wed Zhangxian on January 11, 2025. After her father passed away shortly before their marriage, this loss spurred Zhangxian to propose to A-ko, aiming to solidify their support system in the face of grief. Zhangxian noted, "A-ko has never asked me for money during our relationship, she said, 'I don’t need the inheritance.'" Such statements aim to present A-ko as wholly committed to both Zhangxian and the company.
Despite the skepticism surrounding her appointment, Zhangxian defended the decision, emphasizing, "I want us to learn management together; this has been the plan since the beginning." He attested to A-ko's hard work and dedication, stating emphatically, "She has used up 100 business cards already; she’s very committed." Such assertions highlight A-ko's efforts to integrate herself within the company's operations, refuting claims she is merely titular and uninvolved.
The company's restructuring also revealed internal tensions, with one employee resigning, citing inability to work under new leadership. Zhangxian reported handling the formalities surrounding corporate transitions, assuring stakeholders of stability amid uncertainty. Since Zhangxian's father's legacy is central to the firm's identity, this transition is perceived as precarious by certain factions within the company.
Responses from other employees remain mixed, reflecting concerns where there exists significant familial involvement. One such sentiment regarded A-ko's lack of experience managing the company: "It is unbelievable they would put someone with no qualifications, especially as they navigate through fragile family dynamics," noted one former employee.
On the subject of family relationships, Zhangxian expressed disappointment about estrangement from his brother Liang, whom he had hoped to collaborate with. The fissures within the family became even more evident through these changes, as Zhangxian's plans to work closely with A-ko also had defensive underpinnings against Liang, who continues to hold board-level influence.
While many view Zhangxian's personal life—culminated in this latest marriage—as distracting or indicative of instability, he remains focused on the future, stating, "Yes, A-ko is my fifth wife, and I understand the skepticism, but I would appreciate warm support." This highlights the inherent challenges he faces as both the head of the company and within his personal relationships.
For now, the eyes remain on A-ko and Zhangxian as they navigate this pivotal juncture at Burning Production. The decisions they make will not only affect their personal lives but also the future of the company, which stands at the crossroads of tradition and new leadership.