On November 8, Toei announced that Maya Imamori (19), who plays Sumino Ichikawa / Gozyu Unicorn in the TV Asahi tokusatsu series No.1 Sentai Gozyuger, will step down from her role following confirmation of underage drinking. Her agency also issued an apology and announced that her management contract has been terminated as of today. Under Japanese law, individuals under the age of 20 are prohibited from drinking alcohol.
Maya Imamori
A statement titled “Apology and Notice Regarding the Cast Member of Number One Sentai Gozyuger” was posted on the official website, explaining:
“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 apologized, saying:
“We sincerely apologize for the great concern and inconvenience caused to viewers, sponsors, and everyone involved with the program.”
According to the company, the issue came to light when Imamori’s agency reported her underage drinking.
“Taking this matter very seriously and from the standpoint of strict compliance, we have decided on the following response after discussions with TV Asahi:
Termination of her appearance contract and removal from the series.”
Toei further stated that it will work to prevent recurrence by reinforcing awareness of social responsibility and ethics among cast members and production staff to ensure more reliable program creation.
Maya Imamori
Imamori’s talent agency also released a statement on its official site:
“It has been confirmed that our talent, Maya Imamori, engaged in underage drinking despite being under 20 years old.
As this constitutes a serious breach of contract, we have decided to terminate her management contract as of today after careful deliberation.”
The agency offered its apologies to fans and those concerned and pledged to strengthen compliance education and management systems to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Born in Miyazaki Prefecture, Imamori won the Grand Prix at Miss Magazine 2023 and gained popularity as a gravure model. Her role as Sumino Ichikawa / Gozyu Unicorn in Number One Sentai Gozyuger drew attention as the first-ever female Black Ranger in the franchise.
At the series’ press conference in January, she expressed enthusiasm:
“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.”
Following the controversy, Imamori posted an apology on Instagram:
“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. I deeply regret my actions and am reflecting on them seriously.”
She 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. I am truly sorry.”
Source : ORICON NEWS
