NHK is expected to announce the resumption of programming featuring former Johnny's talent, now under STARTO ENTERTAINMENT, marking a significant shift after over a year of halted new hires. The decision comes in light of progress in compensation for victims of sexual abuse, a major factor in NHK's previous decision to cease new contracts.

Following the revelations about the late founder Johnny Kitagawa, NHK chairman Nobuo Inaba stated last September that the network would not engage in new contracts until effective measures for victim support were implemented. Recent developments indicate that NHK has been in discussions with STARTO since summer, with production teams showing a renewed interest in reintroducing these artists. However, previous hesitations from higher management have delayed this process.

SMILE-UP, the organization dedicated to compensating victims, recently reported that 524 individuals who came forward for compensation have been notified, with about 96% reaching agreements.

Inaba's recent statements suggest that the time is approaching for a comprehensive evaluation of the situation. While STARTO has indicated they have not been contacted regarding any specific developments, insiders suggest that NHK’s decision to revisit its policy reflects a significant turning point for the network.

One of the most anticipated outcomes of this policy shift is the potential return of former Johnny's talent to major events, including the annual Kohaku Uta Gassen (Red and White Song Battle) on New Year’s Eve. Fans are eager to see their favorite groups back on the stage after a notable absence last year, which was the first time in 44 years that no affiliated groups participated. Instead, those artists opted for online performances, which garnered positive feedback from audiences.

With the possibility of reintroducing former Johnny's talent to a variety of NHK programs, including music shows and Taiga dramas, fans remain hopeful for a revival of their favorite acts.