Hiroshi Ikushima has stepped down from his role as the host of TBS Radio’s Ikushima Hiroshi no Ohayo Teishoku Itchokusen, ending a 27-year run with the program. His resignation, announced on January 27, 2025, follows allegations of inappropriate behavior. Ikushima’s agency, Ikushima Kikaku-shitsu, confirmed the decision and stated he would be suspending all entertainment activities indefinitely.

The agency issued an apology, acknowledging the impact on everyone involved, including staff and loyal listeners. It explained that discussions with TBS Radio and Ikushima revealed incidents involving harsh treatment of production staff and the sharing of inappropriate images with female colleagues. The agency described these actions as stemming from a lack of awareness about power and sexual harassment and expressed regret for the harm caused.

In his own statement, Ikushima reflected on the situation, calling the programs his life’s work and expressing remorse for his behavior. He admitted to sending an inappropriate image received from a friend to staff members, which led to discomfort, and to displaying harsh behavior during live broadcasts. He accepted full responsibility and acknowledged his lack of understanding regarding harassment issues, pledging to reflect deeply on his actions.

TBS Radio confirmed that Ikushima’s actions constituted significant violations of its compliance policies and were inconsistent with the TBS Group Human Rights Policy. While specific details were not disclosed to protect privacy, the company stated that his resignation was necessary to uphold its standards.

Ikushima Planning Office Co., Ltd announced that Ikushima had relinquished all roles within the agency and would indefinitely suspend his entertainment career. The agency vowed to improve the awareness and behavior of its talents to prevent similar incidents in the future and expressed its commitment to restoring trust with all parties involved.

The statement concluded with a apology, stating they intend to improve awareness of their employees and affiliated talents so this type of harassment never occurs again in the future.