Thu Jan 23 03:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Sociologist Furuichi Expresses Disappointment Over “Naikai Masahiro no Doyoubi na Kai” Cancellation, Calls for Transparency from Former SMAP Leader
**TOKYO** – Sociologist Kenji Furuichi took to X (formerly Twitter) on January 22nd to express his disappointment over the cancellation of the TV Asahi program, “Naikai Masahiro no Doyoubi na Kai,” and to comment on the recent controversies surrounding its host, Masahiro Nakai.
Furuichi, who was a regular panelist on the show, described the program’s end as unexpected and lamented the loss of a positive and collaborative work environment. He reminisced about his first meeting with Nakai in 2016, highlighting the former SMAP leader’s sharp intellect and insightful nature.
Regarding the ongoing reports surrounding Nakai’s personal life, Furuichi acknowledged conflicting accounts from those close to the situation, making it difficult to ascertain the truth. He stated that the Nakai he knew on the show was largely unchanged from the public image, but acknowledged that individuals possess multiple facets to their personality.
He declined to offer judgement on Nakai, mentioning that he received an apology from Nakai on behalf of the cast and crew. While he described the apology as sincere, it did not shed light on the details of the situation.
Furuichi’s post took a personal turn, expressing his long-time admiration for SMAP and the impact their music and presence had on him. He voiced his hope that Nakai would address the situation publicly, emphasizing the responsibility of a former national star to offer clarity to the public. Furuichi concluded by thanking the viewers of the program and lamenting the abrupt ending of the show’s run.
First Piper 