Fuji Television Network has regained about 80% of the sponsors that suspended commercials following a sexual abuse scandal involving former TV star Masahiro Nakai, which prompted the president's resignation a year ago. The incident exposed flaws in the company's governance. Its parent, Fuji Media Holdings, introduced a reform plan emphasizing human rights in May.
The scandal erupted in January 2025, severely damaging Fuji Television's reputation. The sexual abuse case involving former star Masahiro Nakai highlighted pervasive harassment issues across the company, leading to the president's resignation. A third-party committee's report criticized Fuji TV, stating that harassment-related damage was "rampant" throughout the organization.
After a management overhaul, sponsors gradually resumed advertising over the summer. By December, the number of sponsors had recovered to 86% of the level from a year earlier. Fuji TV aims to fully restore pre-scandal sponsor levels by April.
Fuji Media President Kenji Shimizu emphasized, "It's important to continue reforms. If we continue to make tireless efforts, the entire organization will become healthy."
The broadcaster intends to incorporate human rights compliance into contracts with program participants. The reform action plan prioritizes human rights and outlines ¥250 billion in growth investments over five years to bolster the content business.
Meanwhile, the group's largest shareholder, Aya Nomura—the eldest daughter of activist investor Yoshiaki Murakami—and a linked investment fund announced in December plans to increase their stake to up to 33.3%. They are pushing for the separation of Fuji Media's real estate operations.
Management now grapples with rebuilding the group amid internal reforms and external pressures.
