My first reaction was: HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA
To be perfectly honest, this came out of left field. I didn't think the scandal would amount to anything, especially because it all sounded really familiar, it was basically like a mishmash of all the things that happened with previous girls. And, as it turns out, that's exactly what it is, except they decided to punish her anyway.
Sashihara's still vehemently denying that they had sexual relations, although she conceded that they were friends. Basically, this was an admission of guilt, even if the main body of the accusation is still up in the air. And I suppose if you're a huge idol now, the statute of limitations on rule-breaking doesn't really run out.
Whether or not the punishment was actually needed is what some people mention. But I think what Akimoto said about the public perception is right; at this point, her guilt matters to no one, and what needs to happen is a response. That said, I'm not sure who cares about Sasshi's sexual habits other than the wota. But I suppose it is a little of a self-fulfilling prophecy, now that this happened there's no way for the public to ignore it (keep in mind, not everyone in Japan really gives a shit about gossip rags, which Bunshun is), because Aki-P went and transferred her to HKT48.
Personally, I'm a little afraid about what will happen to her. I have no doubt about her ability to adapt to changing situations, but being uprooted like this can have some funky effects on a person. Career-wise, it comes at a less than perfect time. Just after she captured #4, and just as her mainstream assignments are probably coming it. At this point Sashihara is poison and I don't think too many people will be interested. Of course, it could be that her assignments get even more because of the added publicity, but I think the whole having sex with men thing might get in the way.
I'm a little worried about Not Yet. However, not too much. She's ultimately still tied to her agency, and they have the final say on what she gets to do. Logistically of course moving her around will be a pain, but I think they know themselves, that she's worth the money they spend on her.
As for the HKT girls, I think we should all just play a wait-and-see. Sashihara knows more than anyone where she stands, and she's seen what happens to girls that break the rules. I think she has a perfectly clear image in her mind about how (un)lucky she is. I hope she can get along, just from the sheer age difference, and hopefully get to learn from the younger girls, as much as they have to learn from her.
I called it 天下り at first, but I think she could serve a purpose in the education of the newer girls, with her experience both at the low end of the spectrum and the limelight that she was thrust into over the past 2 years. I hope she can continue being visible in the mainstream, to have her fade into obscurity due to the sheer distance would be a shame, and would definitely kill a bit of many people's fandom.
I probably will never get used to Sasshi being in HKT, but time will tell if many will even remember who Sashihara is.
Topic: [News] Sashihara Rino Transferred to HKT48 (Read 19736 times)