On September 15, BIFF organizers informed the press that the conference for The Final Piece had been called off, citing “circumstances related to the guest” and asked for understanding regarding the sudden change. The event was initially set to feature Sakaguchi Kentaro alongside actor Kan Watanabe in a group interview format, with advance press applications already submitted.

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The cancellation comes shortly after Shukan Bunshun reported that Sakaguchi has allegedly been living with his hairstylist and makeup staff member, referred to as “A,” for over four years, while also maintaining a secret relationship with actress Mei Nagano.

Although BIFF has not officially linked the decision to these reports, the sudden withdrawal has fueled speculation that ongoing personal life controversies prevented Sakaguchi from attending.

The Final Piece, which centers around the traditional Japanese board game shogi and its connection to a murder mystery, was invited to BIFF’s Open Cinema section. Sakaguchi plays the role of Keisuke, a genius shogi player who becomes a prime suspect in a killing.

Sources: Daum