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During the 2024 Paris Olympics, Japanese javelin thrower Hazuka Kitaguchi clinched the gold medal, achieving a historic double win in both the World Championships and the Olympics. However, a particular incident during the competition has sparked widespread controversy.
Incident on the Show “Leave it to Akko!”
In a recent episode of the variety show “Leave it to Akko!”, a clip was aired showing Kitaguchi lying on the ground eating a Nagasaki cake. The host, singer Kazuko Wada, commented, “She looks just like a sea lion lying there,” adding, “How cute.” This remark quickly ignited a firestorm on social media, with many viewers criticizing the comparison to a sea lion as disrespectful and offensive.
Public Backlash
The backlash was fierce in Japan, with netizens deeming Wada’s comments inappropriate. Calls for her retirement flooded social media, with many arguing that her remarks were both slanderous and discriminatory. According to a report by “NTV NEWS24,” Kitaguchi chose to lie down due to the inappropriate height of the chairs, which would have caused her to slouch if seated.
Repeat Offender?
This is not the first time Kazuko Wada has been at the center of controversy for her remarks. She has previously been criticized for disseminating incorrect information and making inappropriate comments, raising doubts about the future airing of “Leave it to Akko!” Many viewers are concerned that the show’s future could be jeopardized by Wada’s continued controversial behavior.