Japan's entertainment industry is grappling with the fallout from sexual abuse allegations against the iconic founder of Johnny & Associates, Johnny Kitagawa, whose alleged transgressions have significantly marred the reputation of the once-prestigious agency. Following these revelations, many stars under the agency have opted to leave, demonstrating the deep-rooted impact of the scandal. Yet, among the few high-profile idols who have chosen to stay is Kimura Takuya, renowned for his past as part of the legendary group SMAP.
On December 20, 2024, during the TV show Please Leave It to Snow Man, Kimura addressed his decision to remain with Johnny's, openly discussing his motives for not resigning. When asked by Snow Man member Raul why he decided not to leave, Kimura admitted, "If I were to only think about myself, then leaving would be the easier choice, but I do not view it from my individual standpoint." This acknowledgment came amid widespread discussion and scrutiny over the appropriateness of continuing his career with the agency tied to severe misconduct allegations.
Kimura elaborated on his reasoning, stating, "The feelings fans have invested include all the moments from when I joined the agency and interactions between the junior members and myself." His comments highlight the difficult balance between personal ethics and the connections forged over the years with fans, which have undoubtedly shaped his career.
Despite his candid explanation, Kimura's decision has sparked polarized reactions among fans. Supporters laud his loyalty and commitment to the agency and the relationships he has built over the decades. Conversely, many critics argue the rationale seems inadequate considering the gravity of the allegations against Kitagawa. Online discussions expose feelings of conflict: some fans assert they appreciate Kimura's contributions to the entertainment industry but feel uneasy about supporting any figure aligned with the scandal-ridden agency.
Many fans expressed sentiments such as, "I like Kimura Takuya from SMAP, not Kimura Takuya from Johnny's," emphasizing their discomfort with supporting someone associated with such detrimental claims. These varied reactions reflect the complexity of idol culture, where personal and professional loyalty frequently clashes with public ethics and social responsibility.
Following the scandal's outbreak, the once-thriving Johnny & Associates has attempted to mitigate the damage by restructuring under the new name Star Tak Entertainment. This rebranding effort aims to distance the agency from its controversial past and signal to the public and the industry—a fresh start. Despite this, the reputation is still under significant scrutiny, and the future remains uncertain.
Even more concerning for the agency is the fact many artists and rising talents have chosen to distance themselves, leaving Johnny's to explore opportunities elsewhere. Shortly after the scandal erupted, well-known names like Ninomiya Kazunari and Matsumoto Jun from the group Arashi, along with others like Domoto Tsuyoshi and Okada Junichi from KinKi Kids and V6, among others, departed, signaling discontent not only with Kitagawa’s actions but also with the agency’s response to the crisis.
The scandal has forced both industry insiders and fans to reconsider how they perceive idol culture and the responsibilities of entertainment companies to protect their talents. The undercurrents of this movement for change challenge the status quo, seeking to advocate for victims and hold powerful figures accountable for their actions.
Many are now advocating for stronger protections and ethical standards within the idol industry to prevent such situations from arising again. The #MeToo movement has ignited similar conversations around the world, and Japan is increasingly joining the dialogue about enabling abuse survivors to speak out without fear of retribution.
Some concerned fans have even urged fellow supporters to reconsider their allegiance to brands and talent associated with Johnny's as the organization continues to navigate the narrative surrounding breakout allegations and their long-term consequences.
While Kimura's commitment may resonate with some, the overriding narrative is one of disillusionment and the struggle to reconcile admiration for artists with the discomfort stemming from the complicated reality of their associations. With the industry at this pivotal juncture, many will be watching closely to see if Johnny & Associates can emerge from the shadow of its notorious past and forge a more equitable future for its artists.
It is clear Kimura Takuya's choice to stay has ignited intense discussion, marking both his admiration for fan loyalty and raising questions about accountability within the larger framework of idol agencies.
