Punishment and "Crime"

Tsuyoshi Kusanagi

(pic from here)

I first saw this story in the Yuuyake Shimbun, a local paper that I used to write for. Since they don’t have a web presence, let me reference the British Times Online: Tsuyoshi Kusanagi involved in naked romp.  These Smap guys were big when I was in Japan, and from the sound of the article, they’re still big.  All five of them are clean-cut and wholesome looking, and they project a very good image.  Unfortunately, Kusanagi had a bit of a drunken incident, and it looks like his career will be taking a brief vacation.

I don’t know the culture well enough, but it seems harsh to pull the guy’s contracts and endorsements just because of a naked, drunken romp.  I’d understand if it were a short term contract as a spokesperson, but to fire him after he’s done so much for so long seems to me to be a bit of overkill.  Everyone makes mistakes, and it’s not as if he killed, assaulted, or went on a racial tirade against anyone.

The original Yuuyake article had additional commentary on how Asian media keep tight control over their actors and actresses.  I’ve heard the same from people who are in the industry.  It makes one wonder if it’s really worth it.

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