Maya Imamori Dropped by Toei and Her Agency After Underage Drinking Scandal

On November 8th, Toei announced that they had fired Maya Imamori, the actress who played Sumino Ichikawa/Gozyu Unicorn in No. 1 Sentai Gozyuger, due to underage consumption of alcoholic beverages.

In Japan, individuals under the age of 20 are not permitted to consume alcohol. Imamori was 19 when she broke this law. Her actions had immediate consequences, as Toei fired Imamori, TV Asahi was willing to remove Imamori from its programming, and her talent agency dropped her due to this situation.

Toei Issues Public Apology

In a notice entitled “Apology and Notice Regarding the Cast Member of ‘Number One Sentai Go-Zyuger’,” Toei confirmed rumors that had already begun circulating.

“It has been confirmed that Maya Imamori, who appeared in Number One Sentai Gozyuger, engaged in behavior that violates the law prohibiting alcohol consumption by persons under the age of 20.”

Toei continued, expressing their regret and disappointment to the viewers and sponsors.

“We sincerely apologize for the great concern and inconvenience caused to viewers, sponsors, and everyone involved with the program.”

As reported by the company, Imamori’s agency informed them directly of Imamori’s underage drinking. Both sides decided to nullify Imamori’s appearance contract after negotiations with TV Asahi to remove her from the series.

Toei aims to promote awareness in its actors and staff members regarding social responsibility to avoid similar problems in the future.

Her Agency Cuts Ties

Imamori’s agency issued a statement confirming that her contract was instantly nullified. They considered this move a grave violation. They apologized to fans but stated that education regarding compliance would improve in the future.

Life Before Becoming The Black Ranger?

Before joining Gozyuger, Imamori won the Grand Prix prize in the Miss Magazine 2023 competition. Later, she became a gravure model. She quickly gained popularity.

Her appearance as Gozyu Unicorn, the first female Black Ranger in Sentai history, was historic. When interviewed during the press conference held for the series in January, she was confident and optimistic.

“I want to give my all every day so that viewers can enjoy the show each week. I hope to create a work that makes people think, ‘This is wonderful!’ at every moment.”

Her passion made her one of the most interesting emerging voices of the year. With her departure, one can’t help but wonder what she could have become.

Imamori’s Apology to Her Fans

Imamori later responded to the issue directly through his Instagram account.

“I sincerely apologize for the trouble and concern I have caused many people due to my careless actions. Drinking alcohol while underage is a shameful act as both a member of society and as an individual.”

Imamori continued,

“I would like to apologize once again to my fans, everyone involved, and my co-stars for causing great trouble and disappointment. Through this incident, I will reflect on my immaturity, face the consequences of betraying the trust placed in me, and live my life with sincerity so that this will never happen again.”

Her apology was tinged with a sense of awareness of the overwhelming consequences. Unfortunately, this scenario has become alarmingly common in Japan’s show business industry.

What Happens to Maya Imamori and No.1 Sentai Gozyuger Next?

As Toei has not disclosed how Imamori’s sudden departure will feature in the series, there are three possible courses that the team can take. These include recasting Imamori’s role or using masked footage to conceal Imamori’s exit.

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