Actor Jiro Sato Removed from Drama Amid Workplace Bullying Allegations

Japanese actor Jiro Sato is embroiled in a workplace bullying scandal following allegations of physical contact and verbal abuse against his co-star Ai Hashimoto. The accusations, detailed in a report by Shukan Bunshun, claim Sato touched Hashimoto inappropriately and entered her dressing room to verbally abuse her, causing her to cry.

Sato's agency has stated that the physical contact was accidental, occurring during a car scene filming for the Fuji TV drama 'Keiji Yugai'. However, Fuji TV, after an external investigation, confirmed that Sato made inappropriate remarks despite knowing Hashimoto had past trauma from harassment during stage work. The network issued a formal warning to Sato, acknowledging the problematic nature of his comments.

In response to the escalating controversy, Fuji TV has taken decisive action by removing Sato from an upcoming drama series. The series, an extension of the 'Bayside Shakedown' film franchise, was scheduled to begin filming on July 2, with Sato's role now recast. This decision reflects Fuji TV's heightened focus on human rights protection and internal regulations, particularly after a similar dispute involving former talent Masahiro Nakai late last year.

Sato himself posted on social media platform X, expressing his frustration and desire for the truth to be revealed, stating, "My patience has reached its limit. I hope all the facts will be revealed." This post has garnered over 130 million views, indicating the intense public interest in the case. The production team is reportedly scrambling to revise the script and find a replacement actor, facing significant disruption and uncertainty about the drama's completion.

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My patience has reached its limit. I hope all the facts will be revealed.