Hitoshi Matsumoto halts activities amid sexual assault allegations

Heidi Hsia
·1-min read

10 Jan– Comedian Hitoshi Matsumoto is taking a break from showbiz amid allegations of sexual misconduct.

 

As reported on Japan Times, on 8 January, the TV personality's agency released a statement, saying that the Downtown member has asked for the hiatus so that he can address the various allegations.

The company stated that Hitoshi didn't want to further burden everybody else if he continues his entertainment activities, and that they will respect his decision.

"We apologise for the sudden halt of his activities and the great inconvenience that it may have caused everybody involved, but we hope for your understanding," the company added.

Hitoshi is part of the comedy duo Downtown
Hitoshi is part of the comedy duo Downtown

A Japanese weekly tabloid recently released an article accusing the comedian of sexual misconduct, in which two women claimed that they were forced into sexual acts sometime in 2015.

He had since denied the allegation, saying that he will fight it as it was "totally groundless."

(Photo Source: Japan Times, Nintendo Soup)