Since 1998, Fuji TV has aired Family Club’s annual year end show, formerly known as “Johnny’s Countdown.” Today, the network announced in a press conference that that will not be the case this year.
In light of the Johnny Kitagawa sexual abuse scandal, Fuji TV will not air the show, whether it takes place or not, according to Fuji TV Managing Director Ota Ryo. “I don’t know if there will be an event,” he said. “The year end and New Year programming will not be completed in time, so we have decided that even it there is an event, it will not be broadcast.” Fuji TV is currently “arranging” what will be arranged in the show’s place.
Other shows aired in the same year / New Year time period that feature Family Club talent include “FNS Kayousai” with Masaki Aiba, “Ninomiyanchi” with Kazunari Ninomiya, and “Santaku” with Takuya Kimura.
In regards to “FNS Kayousai”, Aiba has been asked to host the show, but it is unclear how many talents from the company will appear on it. “Ninomiyanchi” and “Santaku” will air as usual.
Ota acknowledged that Family Club is making progress in reform, and that the network is in discussions the company. Taking all of this into consideration, the network will make decisions accordingly.
It should be noted, that Hey! Say! JUMP will perform at Tokyo Dome December 29 and 30, as well as January 1. It is safe to assume that December 31 is reserved for the company’s year end show.
