
Karata Erika and Higashide Masahiro promoting the film “Netemo Sametemo” (a.k.a. “Asako I & II”) back in 2018.
Karata Erika is involved in a scandal involving an alleged three-year affair with married actor Higashide Masahiro.
Karata Erika released a statement through her management:
“I received a report that caused commotion and after reflecting on it, I came to the decision to refrain from performing. I deeply apologize for the inconvenience to the people concerned. I’m very sorry”.
Karata currently is appearing in the TBS drama “Byoshitsu de Nenbutsu o Tonaenaide Kudasai” (Do not recite Bhudda in the Hospital Room) which airs on Friday at 10:00 p.m. So, she is refraining from appearing on this drama.
Karata is to also set to appear in the NHK BS Premium Drama “Kingyo Hime” (Goldfish Princess) which will begin in March.
In addition, Karata’s Instagram was also taken down.
UPDATE: Karata Erika’s name was removed from the official drama website before 11:00 p.m. According to TBS, all scenes featuring Karata will be cut and future scenes will not be filmed.