Scandal-hit Fuji Media faces uncertain future as longtime exec exits

Hisashi Hieda casts long shadow over leading Japanese media empire

Hisashi Hieda, pictured in Tokyo in March 2005, has wielded influence over Fuji Media Holdings and Fuji TV for roughly four decades. © Kyodo

TAKAYUKI INOUE

March 28, 2025 04:35 JST

TOKYO -- Japan's Fuji Media Holdings is at a crossroads as longtime director Hisashi Hieda steps down over a sexual misconduct scandal involving TV host Masahiro Nakai that exposed serious problems with the group's culture and corporate governance.

Fuji Media is part of Fujisankei Communications Group -- one of Japan's largest media conglomerates, with roughly 80 units across TV, print media, museums and beyond. Hieda served on Fuji Media's board for roughly 40 years, earning nicknames like "emperor" and "dictator" for his extensive influence.