Fuji TV Faces Leadership Crisis and Corporate Overhaul Amid Internal Scandals

The year 2025 has brought major upheavals to Fuji TV, one of Japan’s most iconic television networks. The organization finds itself at the center of a storm following the resignation of top executives, including Vice President Ryunosuke Endo and President Koichi Minato. The crisis reached its peak with a marathon 10-hour press conference where executives faced relentless questioning about their crisis management and corporate culture. These developments have rocked the foundation of an institution that has long been a cornerstone of Japanese television, raising concerns about its future in an increasingly competitive industry.

Endo’s decision to step down, announced as part of the aftermath of an independent investigation report due in March, underscores the severity of the situation. The events also expose structural weaknesses that have plagued Fuji TV for years, leaving it ill-prepared to handle both internal and external challenges. With the resignation of Minato and calls for sweeping organizational reform, the company faces an uphill battle to regain credibility and relevance.

Minato’s departure, made public in late January, was accompanied by promises of a complete overhaul of the organizational structure. Newly appointed President Kenji Shimizu has pledged to restore trust among employees and viewers. However, the path to recovery appears fraught with obstacles and uncertainties.

The origins of Fuji TV’s crisis

The current crisis at Fuji TV stems largely from the mishandling of allegations involving host Masahiro Nakai and a woman who came forward with claims of misconduct. Reports suggest that the network failed to establish clear protocols for addressing such situations promptly. This incident triggered widespread public criticism, putting the company under intense scrutiny.

Koichi Minato, who took over as president in 2022, was blamed for his lack of decisive action. During his tenure, Minato attempted to revive Fuji TV’s programming, achieving notable successes like the revival of the “FNS 27-Hour TV” program after a four-year hiatus. However, these efforts were overshadowed by the network’s poor handling of internal issues and a growing erosion of public trust.

The situation escalated when a magazine report disclosed details about Nakai’s case. Fuji TV’s response was deemed insufficient, leading to further questions about the organization’s transparency and ethics. The resignations of Minato and other senior executives reflect the gravity of the ongoing crisis.

Corporate culture under scrutiny

A significant aspect of Fuji TV’s troubles lies in its corporate culture. Analysts have pointed out that the network has failed to modernize its practices, maintaining a conservative, change-averse approach. This resistance to innovation has left Fuji TV vulnerable in an industry where agility and adaptability are paramount.

External directors within the company have emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive reform, including greater transparency and regular communication with employees and the public. One proposed solution is the establishment of a management reform committee to oversee improvements in governance.

Another key issue is employee morale. Many staff members reportedly feel uncertain and disillusioned, which could further undermine the organization’s efficiency. The new leadership will need to address these internal challenges with sensitivity and determination to rebuild a positive corporate culture.

Challenges facing Fuji TV

In addition to internal problems, Fuji TV faces significant external challenges. The network has been losing viewers to digital platforms and more dynamic competitors in recent years. The fragmentation of the audience and shifting viewer preferences place additional pressure on the company to reinvent itself and stay relevant.

The current crisis highlights the need for innovative strategies to attract and retain audiences. These strategies include developing engaging, relevant content and leveraging modern technologies to enhance the viewer experience. Fuji TV’s ability to adapt to these new realities will be crucial for its long-term success.

Proposed measures to address the crisis

To overcome its challenges, Fuji TV must implement a series of strategic measures, including:

• Leadership restructuring: Ensure that leadership aligns with modern market demands and ethical standards.
• Corporate culture modernization: Promote values such as innovation, transparency, and inclusivity.
• Investment in technology: Expand the network’s digital presence and explore new distribution platforms.
• Governance improvement: Establish clear policies to prevent future scandals and rebuild public trust.

The impact on Fuji TV’s reputation

The recent events have dealt a severe blow to Fuji TV’s reputation. A recent survey revealed a significant decline in public trust, reflecting the perception that the company failed to prioritize ethics and transparency. Regaining this trust will be one of the biggest challenges for the new leadership.

The network’s handling of the crisis is also being closely watched by other players in the industry. Fuji TV could serve as either a cautionary tale or a success story, depending on how it manages its response in the coming months.

Fuji TV’s historical significance

Founded in 1959, Fuji TV has played a central role in the history of Japanese television. The network has produced iconic programs that have become staples of popular culture, earning a special place in the hearts of viewers. However, the current crisis threatens to overshadow this legacy, underscoring the need for a transformation that respects its roots while adapting to the future.

The road ahead

As Fuji TV navigates one of the most challenging periods in its history, all eyes are on how its new leadership will rise to the occasion. The ability to implement structural changes and reconnect with its audience will determine the network’s trajectory in the years to come.