Tokyo’s A-list Actor Hirofumi Arai Arrested on Sexual Assault Charges
Who’s at the center of the storm?
Hirofumi Arai, a 40‑year‑old star who first dazzled screens in 2001, faces serious accusations. He’s earned accolades—think Japan Academy’s Best Supporting Actor in 2016 for Hundred Yen Love—and is set to star in a June release. Yet, the recent arrest threatens to eclipse his career.
What went down?
- In early July, Arai allegedly paid a 30‑something‐year‑old out‑call masseuse to come to his Setagaya home; the visit happened around 2:30 a.m.
- He admitted to being drunk at the time. The worker later filed a police report that same night.
- Investigations led to a search of Arai’s Tokyo apartment on Friday.
According to the Yomiuri daily, the police say Arai wouldn’t deny all claims. “I did some things, but I didn’t do things like pull her head down,” he reportedly said. A key twist—he had signed a contract that-bound sexual activity as forbidden—yet the event was the first time he’d met this particular masseuse.
Background & fallout
Arai hails from Hirosaki, Aomori, and first appeared in Isao Yukisada’s Go back in 2001. His new film, Typhoon Family, slated for a June launch, faces a potential release hold‑up. Meanwhile, BS Fuji Television announced the cancellation of a TV program starring him that was supposed to debut on Feb 10.
Public reaction
Even without an official statement, Twitter exploded with debate by 11:30 p.m. (Singapore time). One user, @sato_tomy, wrote: “Rape is forbidden for whatever reason. Even celebrities, no matter how great their acting, are equal under the law as ordinary people. A grave mistake can destroy you. I liked you as an actor. But as a person, I despise you.”
Management’s response
His agency, Anore, sent a domestic media statement: “While we have not confirmed all the facts, we deeply regret the situation that has emerged. We sincerely apologize to the victim and all concerned parties.”
For more details, check your local news or the official The Straits Times archives, where this story first appeared.
