Popular Actress Drops Out Of Drama After Accusations Of Affair With Married Man

On April 23, Japan’s Shukan Bunshun published rumors and alleged photo evidence of actress Nagano Mei’s alleged affair with actor Tanaka Kei.

The outlet released photos reportedly taken in front of Nagano’s apartment on April 19, showing the pair getting into the same car with their faces covered by masks. It was also alleged that Nagano was two-timing Tanaka with another actor, supposedly her Korean co-star.

Both Nagano and Tanaka, as well as the Korean actor suspected of being involved, have denied the claims, but there have already been negative results. Nagano reportedly has lost several sponsorships, and nine advertisers have already removed her ads since the scandal began.

Now, the actress seems to have dropped a role because of it.

On May 23, it was reported that Nagano had withdrawn from the upcoming NHK Taiga drama, “Toyotomi Brothers!” Her agency, Stardust Promotion, shared the news and apologized to those looking forward to the show.

In view of the great trouble and concern caused to the relevant units by this series of reports, [Mei Nagano] has decided to withdraw from the show. We deeply apologise to everyone who is looking forward to the broadcast, as well as the program-related personnel and co-stars.

— Stardust Promotion

The series was scheduled to begin airing in January 2026.

Nagano is known abroad for several works, including the Netflix series House of Ninjas and the film Daytime Shooting Star.