A popular Japanese variety show titled Hamada Kayōsai has earned international condemnation as the show’s host was seen getting physically aggressive with a female guest.
Recently, members of AiScReam, a girl group consisting of three Japanese voice actresses, appeared as guests on the show and performed some songs live as part of a two-hour special winter episode. During a particular segment, where AiScrReam member Ai Furihata was singing “Kimi tte” by Kana Nishino with her groupmate, the show’s host, Masatoshi Hamada, was seen approaching her from behind.
Suddenly, Hamada grabbed Furihata from the back, putting her in a headlock. He dragged her briefly in that state before pushing her away— all a part of his signature “gag.” The other cast members were seen laughing along as the scene unfolded.
While domestic viewers didn’t react much to this scene, internationally, it has left netizens horrified. Many criticized Japanese broadcasting culture, stating that it normalizes violence against women in the name of comedy.
old ass comedian men will use violent behaviour on women and young girls on tv like it’s the funniest shit ever and will tell you that it’s just ‘part of their characters’ https://t.co/GkFsQg73ki
— mar (@VIVYCREAM) November 28, 2025
the day that grown men stop getting physically violent with young girls and calling it comedy on Japanese tv is the day I will finally know peace https://t.co/ROnNjrSXmu
— ありす🩵🇱🇨 (@_shiopan) November 28, 2025
Hahaha violence against women very funny. NOT. Let me beat up that ugly ass old guy https://t.co/HaWrxoJzxc pic.twitter.com/jXFheukQUq
— My Heart Will GoWon¹² (@celinegowon) November 28, 2025
Literally why do people think this is funny what the fuck. As soon as he grabbed her I felt scared for her. This isn’t comedy https://t.co/YjRdFKuDLv
— mimi | is in love with naoya 🩵🔔 (@majiyoroshikuu) November 28, 2025
The clip went viral in Korea as well, leaving netizens completely baffled.
- “Huh? Why is he acting like that?”
- “He is still doing that?”
- “Can’t believe Japanese people are finding this funny in the comments.”
- “I guess Japanese humor just doesn’t suit me.”
- “Wow, is this really in 2025? This is so f*cking backwards.”