Japanese Fan Who Bear-Hugged Female World Cup Reporter On Live TV Faces Backlash

In the June 29 World Cup knockout match between Japan and Brazil, the Samurai Blue suffered defeat and were knocked out of the tournament. However, a clip from that day has since been circulating online and sparking outrage, and it had little to do with the match itself.

A crew from Japan’s Fuji TV was filming fan reactions outside the stadium in Houston ahead of the match, as part of a pre-match live segment featuring Japanese and Brazilian supporters gathered on the streets cheering for their teams.

As the presenter walked the grounds, the programme showed a man in a tight gold bodysuit covering him from head to toe, with only his face exposed and a Japanese flag draped around his neck, leading fan chants.

While still hyping up the crowd, he suddenly grabbed the female reporter from behind and pulled her into a tight bear hug.

Those nearby quickly stepped in to pull him away, while the production crew immediately cut back to the studio. 

The moment quickly went viral online, sparking strong backlash from Japanese netizens, many of whom condemned his actions as “disgusting”.

Videos taken by spectators also showed his inappropriate behaviour towards the reporter, with the scene briefly turning chaotic. After he was restrained, the presenter continued the live broadcast while maintaining her composure.

His actions have since been widely criticised as sexual harassment. 

According to reports, viewers later identified the man as Japanese comedian Egashira 2:50. The 61-year-old has long been known for his transgressive style of comedy, often involving exaggerated actions and wild antics.

His behaviour also sparked debate, though if you ask us, it’s unclear what exactly was up for debate here. Some defended it as comedy or entertainment, while others firmly maintained that suddenly touching a female presenter during a live broadcast had clearly crossed the line.

It was also reported that this was not the first time Egashira had sparked controversy with his on-air behaviour. In 2025, actress Mei Nagano was seen being chased on a programme by a semi-naked Egashira and was said to have appeared visibly startled.

Mei Nagano later said she was simply shocked and did not want the incident to be exaggerated, while Egashira later apologised to her in a recorded message.

One can only hope he stops making a habit — and comedy — out of such behaviour.