Rotten Mango #259: The “Godfather Of J-Pop” Assaulted Male Trainees In Exchange For Making Them Stars (Johnny Kitagawa)
May 10, 2023
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Episode notes
Koji's Discovery
- Koji Matsushira was discovered at a Johnny's concert and recruited by Johnny Kitagawa.
- He became a star in the band Four Leaves but was also a victim of Kitagawa's abuse.
Kitagawa's Power and Abuse
- Johnny Kitagawa founded Johnny & Associates, the biggest J-Pop agency, and was a prolific sexual predator.
- He assaulted countless trainees for over 50 years, holding immense power over their careers.
Kitagawa's Early Life
- Kitagawa's family was deported from the US to Japan, then returned to LA facing hostility.
- He found solace in Little Tokyo, developing a passion for show business and translating for Japanese singers.