In a sensational turn of events, Japanese actor Danka Kei, known for his roles in popular dramas, has found himself at the center of a scandal involving fellow actress Nagano Mei. The controversy erupted following reports that the two were seen together in a compromising situation, sparking rumors of an affair.
Danka Kei, who has been married since August 2011 and is a father of two, allegedly visited Nagano Mei's home on April 19, 2025. Photographs released by the Japanese magazine Weekly Bunshun show the pair holding hands, which has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community and their fanbase.
According to Weekly Bunshun, Danka Kei, 40, and Nagano Mei, 25, were spotted at her residence, with reports suggesting that he stayed overnight. The two actors had previously worked together in the 2021 film Gree Green is Over There, where Nagano Mei portrayed Danka Kei's daughter. Since then, they have reportedly developed a close relationship.
In light of the allegations, Danka Kei has firmly denied any romantic involvement with Nagano Mei. "It can't be a man-woman relationship. It's not. If she says she likes me, if she thinks she likes me, there are times when I think that way," he stated in an interview. When pressed about his overnight stay, he responded defensively, asking reporters, "Why do you know that? Why do you know that, why do you know that!"
Further probing revealed that when asked if he met Nagano Mei in April, he maintained, "No, it's just a friendly acquaintance." However, when questioned about spending the night, he admitted, "That's not true. I'm sorry. I did something wrong," indicating some level of acknowledgment regarding the situation.
Regarding the rumors of having a key to Nagano Mei's house, Danka Kei insisted, "I didn't have anything like a key. It's a lie. It's a complete lie," emphasizing that he had returned any such keys long ago.
As the scandal unfolded, reactions from the public have been swift and varied. Many Japanese netizens expressed disbelief and disappointment, with comments such as, "Is it an affair?" and "I won't watch any more dramas with those two." Others voiced concerns about Danka Kei's responsibilities as a family man, stating, "A person with a family shouldn't do that."
In a related twist, rumors have also surfaced suggesting that Nagano Mei may be involved with Korean actor Kim Mu-joon, who is 26 years old. Reports claim that she invited him to her home, further complicating the narrative surrounding her personal life. Kim Mu-joon's agency has denied these allegations, asserting that he and Nagano Mei are merely close colleagues.
Both Danka Kei and Kim Mu-joon have quickly refuted the affair rumors, emphasizing that their relationships with Nagano Mei are strictly professional. Danka Kei clarified that Nagano Mei is just a close junior and reiterated that any suggestion of a romantic link is unfounded.
Meanwhile, Nagano Mei's agency has also issued a statement denying any romantic involvement, maintaining that the actress is focused on her career. Since her debut in 2009, she has become a prominent figure in the Japanese entertainment industry, starring in various films and dramas, and currently serves as a model for over ten brands in cosmetics, food, and finance.
As the story continues to develop, the implications of these allegations are significant not only for the individuals involved but also for their respective careers. Danka Kei's reputation as a family man and a respected actor is now under scrutiny, while Nagano Mei's rising star could be affected by the fallout from this scandal.
In the midst of this controversy, the entertainment community is watching closely to see how both actors navigate the challenges ahead. The public's response will likely play a critical role in determining the future of their careers, especially as fans grapple with the complexities of personal relationships in the spotlight.
As for Kim Mu-joon, his involvement in the situation has also drawn attention, especially since he is currently co-starring with Nagano Mei in the TBS drama Caster. His agency's prompt denial of any romantic involvement may help mitigate backlash, but the scrutiny remains high as fans and media alike continue to dissect the details of these unfolding stories.
Ultimately, the intersection of personal lives and public personas in the entertainment industry can lead to tumultuous outcomes, and this situation is no exception. As Danka Kei, Nagano Mei, and Kim Mu-joon navigate these waters, their responses and the public's reaction will shape the narrative moving forward.
