Ryoko Yonekura: Career 'frozen' due to suspected drug use
Actress Ryoko Yonekura faces a major crisis after her home was raided on suspicion of drug use. Her entire contract and film project for 'Doctor-X' were suspended.
Investigation progress and seized evidence
According to Bunshun Online, on October 29, the authorities searched Ryoko Yonekura's apartment and seized several items believed to be related to marijuana. The 50-year-old actress was present at the time of the search, cooperated with the police and confirmed that each item of evidence was photographed for documentation.
Ryoko Yonekura has not been arrested despite being summoned for questioning several times, according to the source. One theory is that she may have been using painkillers containing cannabis extracts to treat chronic back pain. Police are also investigating her boyfriend, an Argentinian dancer who is not in Japan.
The uncertain future of the "Doctor-X" franchise
The incident has severely affected TV Asahi, the producer of the hit series "Doctor-X" starring Ryoko Yonekura. According to industry sources, the movie project "Doctor-X: Final Movie" has been suspended indefinitely.
In addition, all reruns or online streaming of previous episodes will also be suspended. "Doctor-X" is considered a "golden goose" for TV Asahi, having achieved impressive viewership ratings of 4-7%, and this interruption has caused great losses for the station.
Career almost "frozen"
Since September, the actress has been inactive. Her Instagram account has not been updated, and her advertising contracts and film projects have been canceled or postponed. A representative from an advertising agency commented: “Ryoko’s current situation is very awkward. Once her house is searched, no brand or TV station dares to take the risk. Her career is almost frozen.”
Japanese media believes that the only way for Ryoko Yonekura to save her image is to come out in public soon and give an official explanation. Ryoko Yonekura, born in 1975, started her career as a model before becoming one of Japan's top actresses. She is especially famous for her role as Dr. Michiko Daimon in the series "Doctor-X" and has voiced characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the Japanese market.
