Japanese reality television show "Terrace House: Tokyo 2019 - 2020" has been cancelled following the death of one of its participants, 22-year-old pro-wrestler Hana Kimura, Japan Times reported.
Her passing was announced on May 23, 2020.
A message was uploaded to the official Terrace House website. Here's a translation by SoraNews:
“Regarding the recent passing of cast member Hana Kimura, we would like to one again express our deep sadness and offer our sincere condolences to her family.
Regarding Terrace House Tokyo 2019-2020, we have decided to cancel future filming, and also to halt the streaming availability of episodes on FOD.
We accept the seriousness of this situation, and will be earnestly taking it into consideration moving forward.”
According to SoraNews, Fuji TV had initially suspended the scheduled broadcast on May 25, with Netflix doing the same for its May 26 and June 2 episodes.
These episodes will now remain unaired.
Prior to Kimura's passing, the show had already suspended its production and was on hiatus due to Covid-19.
Sleeper hit
If you're not familiar with it, "Terrace House" follows six strangers who are temporarily living together.
Viewers lap up the group's dynamics as well as tension between members, sexual or otherwise.
A panel of hosts run their commentaries on the developments, providing both praise and criticism.
The show, which is often seen as less crass and unscripted compared Western reality TV, has since amassed a cult following.
In Dec 2019, Netflix Japan listed "Terrace House" as one of its most-watched programs for the year, coming second just after "The Naked Director".
Cyberbullying
Though the cause of her death has not been confirmed, it was pointed out that Kimura was receiving heavy criticism and judgment online after an altercation with a fellow cast member.
After her passing, condolences and tributes from friends and fans began pouring in.
The Singapore Wrestling Society:
A Singaporean fan also shared his memories of the wrestling star.
Japan to consider bolstering anti-cyberbullying measures
According to Kyodo News, Japan's communications minister Sanae Takaichi said that Japan is considering bolstering countermeasures against cyber-bullying at a news conference on May 26.
"It's necessary to properly implement procedures to disclose information on senders in order to curb online abuses and rescue victims," Takaichi said.
A group of social networking operators also released a joint statement saying that they will take the necessary steps, including banning the offenders from their platforms.
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Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin): 1800-353-5800
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