Nintendo Pulls Japan TV Ads Amid Sex Scandal

Japan's Fuji Television Network, a major broadcaster, has ceased airing Nintendo advertisements following a sexual misconduct scandal involving Masahiro Nakai, a prominent television personality and former member of the popular J-Pop group SMAP. The scandal emerged in December 2024 when Josei Seven magazine reported a Fuji TV executive arranged a dinner attended by Nakai and a woman, later leading to allegations of sexual assault against Nakai. Reports indicate the matter was settled out of court for ¥90 million (approximately $578,000).

This incident prompted Fuji TV to launch an independent investigation into potential company practices involving the use of female presenters to entertain celebrities. Nintendo's decision to pull its advertising joins a growing list of over 50 companies, including Toyota and Kao Corporation, that have previously severed ties with Fuji TV. Nintendo's advertising slots will now feature public service announcements from the Advertising Council Japan (AC Japan).

The public response to Nintendo's action has been largely positive, with many X platform users expressing support and urging continued adherence to ethical business practices.