A recent controversy has erupted surrounding Kikuchi Fuma's comments regarding STARTO Entertainment's strategy for dissolving its junior groups. On the popular program 'Yoru ni Chayanneru,' Kikuchi expressed that while the move may seem harsh from a fan's perspective, it represents a significant opportunity for the idols involved. This viewpoint sparked outrage among fans, leading to a heated backlash on social media.
On March 20, 2025, during his appearance, Kikuchi noted, "From the fans' perspective, it might be cruel, but from their (the idols') perspective, it's honestly a chance." Many fans, however, took this as a tone-deaf remark, feeling that he should not have commented on such a sensitive topic. The reaction on platforms like X and Twitter was swift, with numerous fans voicing their discontent, stating that they wished Kikuchi had remained silent about the junior dissolution. Comments described this situation as highly insensitive, with fans expressing their anger that Kikuchi would even broach the subject.
Compounding the discontent was the announcement made on March 21, when the official X account of the agency's YouTube channel 'Junior CHANNEL' celebrated its 7th anniversary. Critics pointed out the irony of celebrating an anniversary of a channel that has been connected to groups now being dismantled. Comments from fans flooded various social media feeds in response: "How can you celebrate 7 years with the Junior G when they are being disbanded?" and "It's frustrating that while the group’s essence is being destroyed, we acknowledge an arbitrary milestone."
This conflict highlights a broader issue at STARTO Entertainment, as analysts suggest the junior group dissolution strategy may signal the company's potential decline. The idol agency has faced criticism for its recent decisions, which many believe could disrupt the idol culture it has fostered over the years.
Industry insiders are skeptical about the sustainability of STARTO's idol strategy in light of these challenges. As criticisms mount, the future of the company's current model appears uncertain. Some former fans question whether idol agencies like STARTO can continue to thrive if they fail to listen to their audience's grievances concerning the treatment of these budding stars.
In the wake of this controversy, the atmosphere in the idol industry seems increasingly tense. There are emerging discussions about the competitive nature of programs featuring other idol groups, such as SixTONES, and shifts in the landscape of televised idol content. Notably, TBS has announced plans to invest in new regular programming featuring popular members from rival groups, including Do枝駿佑, Matsumoto Jun, and Meguro Ren. This competitive edge raises questions about how STARTO Entertainment's decisions will impact its standing against other agencies.
As the backlash continues, many in the idol community reflect on the significance of these groups and the potential fallout from STARTO's decisions. The emotional ties between fans and their beloved idols are strong, and any perceived betrayal can lead to severe consequences for an agency's reputation and livelihood.
Looking ahead, fans may return to idol culture with renewed advocacy, pushing for a reconsideration of how junior idols are treated within the industry. The crux of the matter lies not only in Kikuchi's comments and the agency's celebratory anniversary but in a larger dialogue that challenges the future of the idol business. It remains to be seen whether STARTO Entertainment can navigate these turbulent waters or if this controversy will mark a significant turning point in the ongoing evolution of idol agency practices.
