Toru Tamakawa apologizes for discriminatory remarks about homeless people

Toru Tamakawa, a commentator on TV Asahi’s “Hatori Shinichi Morning Show,” issued an apology following controversial remarks regarding homeless individuals during a broadcast on October 22. While discussing hair loss and lifestyle habits, Tamakawa stated, “If it changes based on lifestyle, then all homeless people would be bald. There are people living such dirty lives who still have thick hair.”

The comments sparked significant backlash on social media, with critics labeling the remarks as discriminatory and a violation of human rights. Some observers noted a perceived double standard, pointing out that Tamakawa frequently criticizes politicians and corporations while facing minimal consequences for his own verbal lapses.

This incident is not the first for Tamakawa. In 2022, he received a 10-day suspension from TV Asahi after making unsubstantiated claims regarding Dentsu’s involvement in former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral. More recently, he faced criticism for comments regarding Jared Kushner that prompted an apology to the Israeli Ambassador.

Despite the recurring controversies, industry insiders suggest TV Asahi continues to employ Tamakawa due to his high viewership ratings and cost-effectiveness as both a journalist and commentator.