Topping Video Research’s latest survey of the most popular TV “talento” are comedian Akashiya Sanma and actress Takeuchi Yuko. The results are released twice a year. Sanma topped the male category for the fourth time in a row. Second was Southern All Stars vocalist Kuwata Keisuke (up from 6th), followed by rotund comedian Ishizuka Hidehiko (of Debuya and “maiuu” fame, up from 5th). In the female category, comedienne Hisamoto Masami moved up from 5th to 2nd, relegating actress Yamaguchi Tomoko to 3rd.
• Repercussions are still being felt from the Shimada Shinsuke assault case (see earlier stories). His original 10-day forced leave of absence has been extended by the Yoshimoto agency and his emcee role on several TV shows have been filled by other Yoshimoto regulars. The comedian was not arrested, as it was not felt that he was likely to do a runner, but documents were sent to the public prosecutor and the case is likely to go to court.