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| TV Asahi Strengthens Compliance After Imamori Maya Departure From Gozyuger (Photo: Yahoo JP) |
TV Asahi has formally apologised after the unexpected removal of 19-year-old actress Imamori Maya, who previously played Ichikawa Sumino / Gozyu Unicorn in Number One Sentai Gozyuger, the network’s flagship Sunday morning kids’ show.
During the regular press briefing held on November 25th in Roppongi, the network’s president addressed the situation head-on, acknowledging the “serious concern” caused by the incident and expressing regret that it had occurred on a programme aimed primarily at children.
The issue came to light earlier this month when it was revealed that Imamori had consumed illegal stuff despite being under Japan’s legal drinking age of 20.
TV Asahi immediately announced her departure from the show, while her agency terminated her contract on the very same day.
The network has since confirmed that Kohaku Shida will officially step in as the new Gozyu Unicorn, beginning with Episode 40 on 30 November.
Network Apologises, Promises Stronger Compliance Measures
Speaking before the press, TV Asahi’s president offered a direct apology to viewers, parents, and industry staff affected by the disruption.
“As this is a children’s programme, we deeply regret that such an incident occurred. We will take thorough steps to prevent a recurrence and ensure stronger compliance measures going forward.”
TV Asahi also clarified that it is not considering pursuing damages or compensation from Imamori Maya, signalling that the network intends to close the matter without legal repercussions.
On the topic of preventing similar issues in future, the president highlighted the need for personal responsibility but also emphasised that production teams should provide consistent guidance — especially during long productions that often stretch across a full year.
Imamori Maya’s Agency Terminates Contract on the Same Day
Earlier this month, talent agency Seju released its own statement announcing the termination of Imamori’s management contract.
The agency stated that consuming that while underage constituted a clear breach of contract, prompting an internal review that led to the decision.
Maya Imamori’s official profile was quickly removed from Seju’s website, and her social media accounts were set to private shortly afterward.
Seju apologised to fans and partnering companies, promising to strengthen its internal training and oversight to ensure stricter adherence to professional conduct.
The news marked a significant setback for Imamori, who rose to prominence after winning the Miss Magazine 2023 Grand Prix and later made her film debut in Kokoro no Futa: Yuki Furu Machi de (2024). Her casting as the franchise’s first-ever female Black Ranger had also generated notable industry attention earlier this year.
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Kohaku Shida Steps In as the New Gozyu Unicorn
Just weeks after the controversy, TV Asahi confirmed that Kohaku Shida (21) will take over the Gozyu Unicorn mantle.
Kohaku Shida, already familiar to tokusatsu fans for her role as Haruka Kito / Oni Sister in Avataro Sentai Donbrothers, will begin appearing from Episode 40.
The transition has already begun onscreen.
The 9 November broadcast aired without Imamori’s name in the opening credits, and scenes featuring her human form were removed.
However, the suit-only action sequences for Gozyu Unicorn continued to appear, ensuring narrative continuity while the production prepared for Shida’s arrival.
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| Kohaku Shida Replaces Imamori Maya as Gozyu Unicorn (Photo: ORICON) |
The network also temporarily halted the 2 November broadcast, adjusting the schedule to manage the change.
Kohaku Shida’s casting has been well-received by fans familiar with her past work, with many expecting her experience to stabilise the production during the handover.
Imamori Maya’s departure comes at a delicate point in her career. After debuting in 2023, she moved quickly through modelling, acting, and later tokusatsu, securing one of the most visible roles in the long-running Super Sentai franchise.
Her removal from Gozyuger and subsequent agency termination has left her current industry status uncertain, though neither TV Asahi nor Seju has commented on her future activities.
For now, the network is focused on restoring stability to the show — and reassuring viewers that the programme will continue as scheduled under Shida’s new tenure.
Source: Yahoo JP