Masahiro Nakai, a popular TV host who was a member of the former pop group SMAP and is embroiled in a sexual misconduct scandal, said

Nakai’s decision came following reports that he engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with a woman that led to a settlement with the victim.

ONE of Japan’s biggest boy band stars and best-known television hosts announced his retirement on Thursday after being accused of sexual misconduct, Japanese media reported. Read more at The Business Times.

Major Japanese advertisers are fleeing broadcast powerhouse Fuji Television following an alleged sex scandal involving former boy band idol turned TV host Masahiro Nakai. Industry heavyweights such as Toyota,

Masahiro Nakai said he has completed all discussions “regarding my termination, cancellation, removal and contract annulment.”

Major sponsors such as carmakers Nissan and Toyota and the owner of 7-Eleven announced they were pulling ads from Fuji TV over the scandal.

Tokyo Broadcasting Television Inc. (TBS) on Jan. 20 said it will scrap a regular TV program featuring Masahiro Nakai, the celebrity entertainer caught up in a sex scandal.

Japan's Fuji Television said it will open an investigation into a high-profile sex scandal linked to one of the country's top celebrities.

Japan radio and TV stations and companies are suspending advertisements and upcoming episodes of programs featuring Masahiro Nakai, a former