Former Japanese actor Maeyama Takahisa has once again become the focus of intense public backlash after reports revealed that he has changed his name and begun working as a male host in Tokyo, years after being accused of contributing to the tragic death of singer and actress Sayaka Kanda.
Sayaka Kanda, the only daughter of legendary J-pop diva Seiko Matsuda and actor Masaki Kanda, died by suicide in December 2021 at the age of 35. Subsequent media investigations suggested that her death may have been linked to emotional abuse from her then-boyfriend, Maeyama Takahisa, who has since withdrawn from the entertainment industry.
According to leaked audio recordings circulated at the time, Maeyama was allegedly heard repeatedly telling Kanda to “go die,” sparking nationwide outrage. Reports further claimed that his infidelity and verbal attacks placed Kanda under extreme psychological distress, ultimately leading to her death. As a result, Maeyama was branded by the public as “Japan’s most notorious scumbag celebrity.”
Despite attempting a comeback last year, Maeyama failed to regain public acceptance. Japanese media now report that on the 11th, he announced via Instagram that he has begun working as a host at a male-only bar named CENTURY TOKYO in Roppongi. The venue, which features private enclosed rooms, is operated by Eito, a protégé of famed “host king” Roland, and officially opened earlier this year.
In an apparent attempt to distance himself from his past, Maeyama is now using the alias “Makoto”. However, his profile on the club’s official website conspicuously omits basic personal information such as age, height, and birthdate, all replaced with question marks.
The revelation has reignited fierce debate among Japanese netizens. Many questioned his intentions and morality, with comments ranging from “After driving someone to death, how does he still dare to show his face?” to “If he had any shame, he would live quietly away from the spotlight.” Others cynically noted that his good looks and singing ability might actually suit the host industry better than acting.
Some users also pointed out that Maeyama reportedly comes from a wealthy family, arguing that he could have chosen a low-profile, ordinary life instead. “Seeing him reminds people of Sayaka. It’s heartbreaking,” one comment read.
While opinions remain divided, the overwhelming sentiment online suggests that Maeyama Takahisa’s reputation remains beyond repair. His reappearance—no matter under what name—continues to reopen wounds tied to one of Japan’s most tragic celebrity losses in recent years.
Sources: Yahoo News
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