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NHK Confirms Ongoing Talks on SMAP Idol Group's Possible Breakup
posted on by Rafael Antonio Pineda
An attorney representing the Johnny & Associates talent agency confirmed with SMAP are considering leaving the talent agency. According to the attorney, "It is true that discussions and negotiations regarding some leaving are still ongoing. Due to the ongoing negotiations, we will refrain from further comment." According to NHK, no final decision has been made.
The Nikkan Sports newspaper Takuya Kimura (43) will remain.
The group is still under contract for commercials. The group's variety show SMAP×SMAP is also ongoing.
SMAP (Sports Music Assemble People) formed in 1988 with six , although Katsuyuki Mori left the group in 1996. The band debuted with their first single in September 1991, and went on to put out a number of hit songs, such as "Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana," "Lion Heart." "Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana" sold 2.5 million single CDs.
Together the group performed theme songs for Kochira Katsushika-ku Kamearikouen-mae Hashutsujo ("Kochikame") police comedy manga.
[Via Hachima Kikō]
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