Actress Mei Nagano, 25, made headlines as she concluded her appearance on Nippon Broadcasting's "Mei Nagano's All Night Nippon X" on April 29, 2025. This live broadcast, which aired late on April 28, marked her first public statement since a scandal involving alleged infidelity surfaced in the media.
The controversy began when the weekly magazine Shukan Bunshun reported on April 24, 2025, about Nagano's supposed "two-timing" relationship with actor Kei Tanaka, 40, and Korean actor Kim Mu-jun, 26. The report stirred significant public interest and concern among her fans and colleagues.
As she opened the program, Nagano greeted listeners in a calm tone, saying, "Hello. I'm Mei Nagano." She then addressed the scandal directly, stating, "Before starting the program, there is something I would like to say from me." Her apology came swiftly as she acknowledged the distress caused by the reports.
"I am very sorry for the concerns and confusion I have caused to all the listeners who always support me, all the fans, and all the people involved in my work," she expressed. Her heartfelt apology lasted nearly a minute, during which she reflected on her actions. "I am reflecting on my careless actions that caused misunderstandings. I will act with moderation so that this will not happen again. I am very sorry," she added.
Following her apology, Nagano did not dwell on the scandal and continued with the usual format of the show, discussing program merchandise and engaging with listeners about their plans for the upcoming Golden Week.
Despite the controversy, the live broadcast attracted significant attention, with the hashtag #NaganoMeiANNX trending on X (formerly Twitter) during and after the show. Over 30 members of the press had gathered outside the studio, eagerly awaiting her arrival, but her car was shielded from view by black curtains, and she did not engage with the media afterward.
In response to the scandal, Nagano's agency firmly denied the allegations regarding her relationship with Tanaka. They clarified that the two are merely colleagues in the acting industry, stating, "Tanaka-san and Kim Mu-jun-san are seniors and friends as actors, and there is no fact of dating." They also emphasized that Nagano was made aware of her actions that might have led to misunderstandings.
Tanaka's agency echoed this sentiment, asserting that they recognize there is no affair. Meanwhile, Kim's agency described their relationship as one of close colleagues, further denying any romantic involvement.
The scandal has sparked discussions among fans and media alike, with many expressing their support for Nagano following her public apology. Some have taken to social media to voice their opinions, with a mix of sympathy and criticism regarding the incident.
As the dust settles, Nagano's commitment to regaining the trust of her fans and colleagues is evident. "I will do my best to regain everyone's trust from now on," she assured her audience, indicating her desire to move forward positively.
This incident highlights the intense scrutiny public figures face in the age of social media and instant news. The rapid spread of information, whether accurate or not, can significantly impact personal lives and careers. Nagano's experience serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with fame and the importance of accountability.
While the scandal may have caused a temporary setback for Nagano, her proactive approach in addressing the issue and her determination to improve may ultimately strengthen her relationship with her audience. As she continues her career, all eyes will be on her to see how she navigates the complexities of public life in the aftermath of this incident.
In the entertainment industry, maintaining a positive public image is crucial, and Nagano's recent actions reflect her understanding of this reality. With her sincere apology and commitment to change, she hopes to turn the page on this chapter and focus on her future endeavors.
