Ai Hashimoto Allegedly Harassed; Agency Vows Strong Response to Defamation

(Central News Agency, Tokyo, July 4) After Japanese actor Jiro Sato recently denied media reports that he allegedly "harassed" lead actress Ai Hashimoto during the filming of a TV drama, Hashimoto's agency stated on July 3 that "the relevant reports are true" and declared that they "will take a firm stance against defamation."

"Bunshun Online" reported on July 1 that during the filming of Fuji TV's drama "The Married Couple's Separate Bedrooms Detective," Sato, who played the male lead, allegedly harassed Hashimoto, who played the female lead, with his words and actions on set. Fuji TV commissioned an external lawyer to investigate and issued a stern warning to Sato.

Fuji TV also confirmed, "It is true that the male actor's words and actions were sternly warned, and measures were requested to prevent such incidents from happening again." Fuji TV also stated that the external lawyer's investigation determined that Sato's words and actions were problematic.

Sato's agency issued a statement in response: "The fact that constitutes harassment has not been confirmed, and such accusations are inappropriate."

Sato also posted on social media platform X on the 3rd, denying the reports: "The reports are biased... In this era, I am well aware that I must be extremely vigilant and cautious to protect myself. How could I possibly have done such a thing? Please do not lie."

Japanese media outlet "Sports Hochi" reported that Ai Hashimoto's agency, EDEN, also released a statement on its official website later yesterday, titled "Reports Regarding Our Company's Actor."

The statement said, "Regarding the reported matters, our company and our actor have received reports from Fuji TV and its lawyers after hearing the accounts of the parties involved and related individuals, including the process and the facts determined." It emphasized, "Our understanding is that Fuji TV's reports are true."

The statement did not mention any names and stated, "We have confirmed that there has been a significant amount of excessive defamation against our company's actor, and we have filed a report with the police. We will take firm criminal and civil measures to address illegal acts." (Compiled by Yang Wei-ching) 1150704

Stand with the truth. Your every donation is a force to protect the freedom of the press.

Download the CNA "One-Stop News" APP to get the latest news in real-time.

This website's text, images, and videos may not be reproduced, publicly broadcast, publicly transmitted, or used without authorization.