Hiroyuki Ariyoshi criticizes comedian Hiroyuki Sugiyama over shoplifting incident

Comedian Hiroyuki Ariyoshi has publicly criticized Hiroyuki Sugiyama, a member of the comedy trio Wagaya, following reports that Sugiyama was referred to prosecutors for suspected shoplifting. Sugiyama allegedly failed to scan seven food items, including sausages, at a supermarket self-checkout, totaling 1,189 yen. Sugiyama reportedly told investigators he committed the act due to financial anxiety caused by declining income.

During a radio broadcast of ‘Ariyoshi Hiroyuki’s Sunday Night Dreamer’, Ariyoshi expressed a mix of empathy and condemnation. While acknowledging the hardship of losing work and income, Ariyoshi stated, “There are things you just shouldn't do,” and dismissed the behavior as “stupid.”

Sugiyama’s talent agency, Watanabe Entertainment, has issued an apology and placed him under suspension. The incident follows a history of behavioral issues attributed to Sugiyama, including past reports of poor conduct and a previous transfer to a regional branch in Kyushu.