Many viewers were left stunned by the shocking behavior of a beloved Japanese comedian during a recent TV appearance. On the show Hamada Kayōsai, three members of the Japanese group AiScReam performed several energetic stages. However, what captured the internet’s attention wasn’t the music, but a disturbing incident involving comedian Masatoshi Hamada and singer Ai Furihata, who is 31 years his junior.
A video clip from the show, circulated widely on social media platform X as of November 30, shows Masatoshi Hamada suddenly approaching Ai Furihata from behind and putting her in a headlock. He then proceeds to drag her across the stage on national television. More unsettling than the act itself was the response from fellow celebrities on the show. Instead of stepping in or expressing concern, they enthusiastically clapped and cheered, appearing amused by the unsettling display.
The scene left many international viewers outraged. They questioned why such violent and inappropriate conduct was brushed off as humor and even encouraged by peers.
Reportedly, this kind of scene is not entirely unusual in Japanese TV culture. Masatoshi Hamada’s controversial actions align with what is often considered his “signature comedy style.” However, this cultural framing did little to quell global criticism. Many international fans and netizens condemned both the show and the comedian, arguing that such behavior especially toward women should not be normalized under the guise of comedy.
“Justifying this as part of his comedy style is unacceptable,” one netizen wrote. “How can people find this funny? The moment he put her in a chokehold, I was worried for her. This isn’t humo it’s harassment,” another added. Many were incredulous that such a scene could still occur in 2025, on mainstream TV.
Masatoshi Hamada, born in 1963, is best known as one-half of the influential comedy duo Downtown, a household name in Japanese entertainment. But even his status as a “national comedian” is now being challenged by a global audience demanding accountability and a reevaluation of what constitutes acceptable humor.
Sources: K14