Fuji Media Holdings (FMH), the parent company of Fuji TV, announced a major leadership shake-up on March 27, including the resignation of longtime executive Hisashi Hieda. However, even as Hieda’s decades-long influence over the company comes to an end, controversy surrounding the network continues to unfold.

A shareholder lawsuit has been filed against both former and current FMH executives, seeking 23.3 billion yen (approx. $155 million USD) in damages. The legal action stems from allegations that Fuji TV mishandled a high-profile scandal involving Masahiro Nakai. The broadcaster was criticized for failing to respond appropriately when reports of Nakai’s involvement in a personal dispute surfaced earlier this year.

The lawsuit names 15 individuals, including Hieda and former Fuji TV president Koichi Minato. Shareholders argue that the company's internal control system was inadequate, which they believe contributed to a decline in advertising revenue. The outcome of the lawsuit may depend on the findings of an independent committee report set to be released at the end of March, which could potentially lead to an increase in the demanded compensation.

Fuji TV has already faced significant setbacks, including sponsors pulling advertisements and production challenges caused by the ongoing fallout. With legal battles now added to the mix, the company finds itself in a deepening crisis with no clear resolution in sight.