Nintendo refused to advertise on a Japanese TV channel because of a sex scandal

One of Japan's leading television networks, Fuji TV, has ceased broadcasting advertisements from Nintendo following a sexual scandal involving Masahiro Nakai, a prominent TV host and former leader of the SMAP boy band. The controversy erupted in December 2024 after Josei Seven magazine reported that a senior Fuji TV employee had organized a dinner for colleagues. Subsequent reports from Weekly Bunshun magazine alleged that only Nakai and one woman attended the event, leading to accusations of sexual assault against Nakai. The matter was reportedly resolved out of court with a settlement of 90 million yen (approximately $578,000).

In response to the scandal, Fuji TV has engaged independent lawyers to investigate the allegations and to address concerns regarding the company's alleged practice of using female presenters to entertain celebrities. This situation has prompted a significant response from the corporate world, with Nintendo joining a list of 50 companies, including giants like Toyota and Kao Corporation, that have opted to withdraw their advertisements from Fuji TV. Nintendo's ads will now be substituted with public service announcements from the Advertising Council Japan (AC Japan), a respected non-profit organization.

The decision by Nintendo has garnered a favorable response from the Japanese public. On the X platform, many users have voiced their support for Nintendo's stance, expressing hope that companies will continue to prioritize ethical business practices in the face of such controversies.