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Masashi Tashiro
Masashi Tashiro
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Masashi Tashiro (田代 まさし, Tashiro Masashi) (born August 31, 1956) is a Japanese former television performer and a founding member of the band Rats & Star. Tashiro was a tenor singer with the band and, later, a TV entertainer in Japan. He directed a film after the breakup of Rats & Star.

In September 2000, Tashiro was referred to prosecutors for filming up a woman's skirt.[1] From 2020 to 2022, he was incarcerated in Fukushima Prison for violating the Methamphetamine Control Law. After his release in October 2022, Tashiro began his YouTube Marcy's Channel on August 4, 2023.[2][3]

Early life

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Tashiro was born on August 31, 1956, in Saga Prefecture. His father, the manager of a cabaret chain, had an affair with another woman; this led to his parents' divorce and his mother raising him alone. In 1961, when Tashiro was six years old, he and his mother moved to Tokyo and he enrolled in a missionary kindergarten. In 1963, he enrolled at Toyama Elementary School in Shinjuku. At age thirteen, when he was a student at Okubo Junior High School, Tashiro's mother remarried. He enrolled in a higher grade at a private high school and lived with his father so he was not financially dependent on his mother's new husband.

In 1972, after graduating from Nakase Junior High School in March of that year, he entered Shibaura Institute of Technology Senior High School to study mechanical engineering. Tashiro met Masayuki Suzuki at Shibaura, and they later formed the doo-wop band the Chanels with Nobuyoshi Kuwano. Tashiro sang baritone, Suzuki was the lead singer, and Kuwano was the trumpet player.

Tashiro was reportedly involved in fights, motorcycle-gang activity, partying at discotheques, and going girl-hunting daily in high school, and was arrested for assault. He met his wife at the end of his junior year in high school, but they are now separated due to his scandals and arrests. In March 1975, Tashiro graduated from Shibaura. Around this time, he began driving and developed an interest in cars; his first car was a Nissan Sunny. Later cars were a Nissan Gloria, a Camaro, a Ford, a Honda Prelude, and a Mercedes-Benz.

In June 1975, Tashiro ran away from home after an argument with his father. He was taken in by Chanels member Hiroyuki Kuboki and worked as a clerk at the same gas station, living in the company dormitory for two years. Tashiro became a truck driver in 1978 when he was hired by the president of a trucking company which patronized his gas station. Although he had already formed the band, he reportedly kept his job as a truck driver.

Entertainment career

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The Chanels and Rats & Star

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The Chanels were formed in 1975, and began performing as an amateur band in 1976. They finished first place on the Japanese television program Ginza Now (ギンザNOW) and won a prize in a music contest sponsored by Yamaha.

Tashiro made his debut as a group member in 1980, and they became known for their rhythm and blues style. The four main singers, including Tashiro, wore blackface (using shoe polish). Their first single, "Runaway", sold over one million copies. The group's May 1981 single, "Hurricane", was covered by Puffy AmiYumi in 2001.

In 1983, the group changed their name to Rats & Star because of the similarly-named French fashion brand Chanel. They broke up in 1986 after leader Suzuki released a solo single, "The Summer Disappeared Over the Glass" (ガラス越しに消えた夏, Garasu goshi ni kieta natsu). Tashiro appeared on the TV music show The Best Ten (ザ・ベストテン), and was a lyricist for singer and actress Kyōko Koizumi. He released the record, The Legend of Niijima (新島の伝説, Niijima no densetsu), as a solo artist.

In March 1996, Rats & Star reunited for six months and covered Eiichi Ohtaki's song "If I Could Meet You in a Dream" (夢で逢えたら, Yume de Aetara) the following month. The song was a hit, and they appeared on NHK's Kōhaku Uta Gassen on New Year's Eve of that year.

Comedian

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After Rats & Star broke up, Tashiro's comedic ability was discovered by Drifters member Ken Shimura and he became a television comedian. As a comedian, he was nicknamed the "King of puns" (ダジャレの帝王, Dajare no Teiō) and "Genius of props" (小道具の天才, Kodōgu no Tensai). On July 10, 1988, Tashiro opened a tarento shop called "Marcy's" (マーシーズ) (after his nickname) on Takeshita Street in Shibuya, Tokyo. He appeared in television commercials, hosted television programs, wrote an autobiography and a book about puns, directed a film and was the main character in the Famicom/MSX2 action game Tashiro Masashi no Princess ga Ippai, which was released in Japan on October 27, 1989. Tashiro appeared in Jun Ichikawa's film, Crêpe, in October 1993 with Kaho Minami.

Controversy

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Voyeurism

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Exterior of a train station
Toritsu-Daigaku Station, where Tashiro was found to have been taking voyeuristic videos up a woman's skirt

On September 24, 2000, Tashiro was referred to prosecutors for videotaping up a woman's skirt with a camcorder in the Tōkyū Tōyoko Line's Toritsu-daigaku Station in Meguro, Tokyo. When asked why he had done it at a news conference on October 4, he said that he had been producing a comedy film called Mini ni tako ga dekiru (ミニにタコができる) – [4] a pun on the similar Japanese pronunciations for "mini" (ミニ; miniskirt) and "mimi" (; ear) and the two meanings of "tako" (callus and octopus) based on the Japanese saying "mimi ni tako ga dekiru" (耳にタコができる; literally "I have a callus in my ear [from hearing something so often]"). The "mini ni tako" remark became widely known in the Japanese media.[5]

In December 2000, Tashiro was fined 50,000 yen (about US$430) for voyeurism.[6] He was temporarily barred from working in the entertainment industry by his agency, MTM Productions. While he was barred, Tashiro did volunteer work such as carrying the wash and serving meals in a nursing home three days a week. On June 28, 2001, he announced his return to the entertainment world: "Please take care of Masashi Tashiro again." (もう1度だけ田代まさしを、よろしくお願い致します)[4]

In July 2001, Tashiro appeared as a guest on the television programs Downtown DX, Guruguru Ninety-Nine (ぐるぐるナインティナイン) and Mecha-Mecha Iketeru! and returned to the cast of "Shimura Ken no Bakatono-sama" (志村けんのバカ殿様). To become a regular on another program, "Hamada Company Dangan! Heroes" (HAMADA COMPANY 弾丸!ヒーローズ), he had to travel from Tokyo to Okinawa without being discovered by anyone. Tashiro lost the contest when he was found out in Kyoto and 100 pictures of him were taken, but the public liked his stunt and his popularity returned. On July 6, 2015, Tashiro was referred to the prosecutor's office for filming up a woman's skirt with his mobile phone in Tōkyū Den-en-toshi Line Futako-Tamagawa Station in Setagaya, Tokyo.[7][8][9]

Tashiro hosted Fuji Television's sports program, SRS, with actress Norika Fujiwara. It was later discovered that he was warned many times by the staff, who became irritated with his habit of sneaking into the women's bathroom (possibly with camera equipment) and not emerging for hours; Fujiwara and other female television stars changed their clothes in the ladies' toilet when Tashiro was hiding inside. The staff associated with the show suspected that he had set up a small camera in the toilet.[10]

Drug use

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First trial

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On December 9, 2001, Tashiro was arrested for peeping through the bathroom window of a man's house near his home in Kita-senzoku, Ōta, Tokyo by Den-en-chōfu police.[11] According to the police, a 32-year-old man spotted Tashiro and ran after him for 300 meters wearing only a bath towel around his waist, catching him and delivering him to the station. An eyewitness reported that Tashiro put on a ski cap, spoke loudly "Forgive me" (許してくれ, yurushitekure) and "It was a misunderstanding" (勘違いだ, kanchigai da) when he was caught, and a camcorder in the vicinity of the scene was recording. He was released on bail.[12]

Tashiro was arrested for possession and use of amphetamine three days later.[13] Seven detectives searched Tashiro's house as part of an investigation of the peeping incident and discovered a bag containing 0.4–0.9g of amphetamine. Tashiro said that he bought it, but how he used it was unknown because a syringe (used to inject drugs) was not discovered in the home search. He was detained as a suspect at the police station from his arrest to February 1, 2002, and was dismissed by MTM Productions.

On December 28, 2001, Tashiro was prosecuted for violation of the Stimulant Drugs Control Law.[6] He said, "I used drugs to get rid of stress and tension before appearing on a TV program" for the investigation by the Tokyo District Prosecution Office. He also said, "I lived confined to the house and I began to worry. From about this April, I used it once every few days". According to an indictment, he warmed amphetamine over a fire and absorbed it in his home's video room. Tashiro's first trial for drug use and other crimes was in Tokyo District Court on February 1, 2002. A week later, he was found guilty and received a three-year suspended sentence of two years' imprisonment.[13]

In spring 2002, Tashiro returned to the entertainment world as director of the V-Cinema series The Way of the Whales (鯨道, kujira-michi). He recorded a 2003 guest appearance for TBS's Sunday Japon (サンデージャポン, sandē japon) on New Year's Eve, his last television appearance to date.

Second trial

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On the night of September 20, 2004, Tashiro was arrested for violation of the Firearms and Swords Control Law on a Nakano street because he had a butterfly knife with a blade 8 centimetres (3.1 in) long.[14] He shared his car with a female acquaintance, and police questioned them both. An investigation indicated that he had about two grams of amphetamines and about four grams of marijuana in a rucksack. Tashiro was arrested the following evening because the woman said "This rucksack is his", and he confirmed it. After this incident, former Rats & Star member Masayuki Suzuki apologized for Tashiro's crimes.[15] Tashiro said that the pressure of stardom contributed to his addiction to drugs. After this arrest, Tashiro was harshly criticized by many of his former co-workers:

We want him to get out from the entertainment world because what he did was despicable.

The damned fool! I'd like to slap him!

I don't want to be associated with such a man.

Tashiro was virtually retired from the entertainment world. The media referred to him as a "former entertainer", and footage of Rats & Star was almost never broadcast; when it was, Tashiro's voice was lowered or removed and he did not appear. Newspapers and magazines tacitly agreed not to talk about him at all. Hikari Ōta, half of the comedy duo Bakushō Mondai, accidentally said his full name. In The God of Entertainment (エンタの神様, enta no kami-sama), Sayaka Aoki (displaying only part of his name), said: "I put a camera in the chest drawer".

Tashiro was arrested for possession of amphetamines on September 21, 2004. On February 7, 2005, he was sentenced to three-and-a-half years' imprisonment.[17] On June 26, 2008, Tashiro was released from prison.[18][19]

2010 cocaine arrest

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On September 16, 2010, Tashiro was arrested with a 50-year-old woman in a parking lot at Red Brick Park in Yokohama for possession of cocaine. According to police, he had two bags of cocaine and said: "It is for my own use".[20] Tashiro said he bought cocaine from a DJ.[21][22][23][24] The Yokohama District Public Prosecutors' Office indicted Tashiro on October 6, 2010.[25]

The incident outraged and disappointed his former co-workers and friends, some of whom publicly commented. Bandmate Masayuki Suzuki said, "I have no idea what to say about this affair. I just wanted him to remember the very hard time not only his family and those around him but also that he himself has had. He really is a bonehead."[26]

Torata Nanbu, leader of Tokyo Shock Boys and one of the people who had supported Tashiro's comeback, said: "My heart is aching very much. I don't mean to beat him up, but he makes me feel empty inside. I wonder if the drug might be more fascinating for him than the feeling of returning to the entertainment industry ... I cannot take any more. Regrettably, this is the end. It is no longer possible for him to restore his reputation."[27] Tashiro had been scheduled to appear on Tashiro Nakamura Nanbu Akua-Chan, a Rainbowtown FM radio program, as part of his comeback but the program was cancelled.

He was released on parole on July 20, 2014, and began a stay at DARC Jeanne (Drug Addiction Rehabilitation Center Jeanne). Tashiro appeared at a press conference on March 18, 2015, announcing the opening of the Asagaya Loft A.

2019 arrest

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Tashiro was arrested again on November 6, 2019, on suspicion of drug use.[28]

Car accident

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Tashiro was rumored to be returning to the public eye in spring 2004 before he caused a car accident on Ōme Kaidō in Suginami. According to news reports, at about 1 am on June 16, 2004, he struck an 18-year-old vocational-school student who was riding a motorcycle after he made an illegal U-turn.[29] The student was seriously injured.

"Person of the Year" incident

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At one point, Tashiro led the online voting for 2001 Person of the Year, passing the number of votes received by Osama bin Laden (left) and George W. Bush.

In 2001, users of the internet forum 2channel (2ch) voted en masse for Tashiro as Time Magazine's Person of the Year. The voting was known as the "Tashiro Festival" (Tashiro Matsuri, 田代祭) by 2ch users. 2channel programmers developed scripts such as "Tashiro Cannon" (Tashiro-hō, 田代砲), "Mega particle Tashiro Cannon" (Mega-ryūshi Tashiro-hō, メガ粒子田代砲), "25 repeated blows Tashiro Cannon" (Nijū-go renda Tashiro-hō, 25連打田代砲), and "Super Tashiro Cannon" (Chō Tashiro-hō, 超田代砲) to vote repeatedly, and "Super Tashiro Cannon" crashed Time's website. Tashiro temporarily reached the number-one position, passing Osama bin Laden and George W. Bush, on December 21, 2001.[30] Time's staff discovered the problem, however, and he was removed as a candidate.[31]

Appearances

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Television

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  • Monomane Ōza Ketteisen (ものまね王座決定戦, The Mimic Champion Contest) (Fuji Television)
  • Star Dokkiri Daisakusen (スターどっきり大作戦, Star candid great Strategy) (Fuji Television)
  • Yūyake Nyan-Nyan (夕やけニャンニャン, Sunset Nyan Nyan) (Fuji Television)
  • Shūkan Stamina Tengoku (週刊スタミナ天国, Weekly Stamina Heaven) (Fuji Television)
  • Takeshi, Itsumi no Heisei Kyōiku Iinkai (たけし・逸見の平成教育委員会, Takeshi and Itsumi's Heisei Board of Education) (Fuji Television)
  • Naruhodo! The World (なるほど!ザ・ワールド, Indeed! The World) (Fuji Television)
  • Ken Shimura's idiotic feudal lord (志村けんのバカ殿様, Shimura Ken no baka tonosama) (Fuji Television)
  • TV Crews Tonari no Papaya (TVクルーズ となりのパパイヤ, TV Crew next-door Papaya) (Fuji Television)
  • Tokoro-san no Tadamono Dewa nai! (所さんのただものではない!, Mr. Tokoro's You are not ordinary!) (Fuji Television)
  • Quiz Derby (クイズダービー) (TBS)
  • Tokusō TV Gaburincho (特捜TVガブリンチョ, Special Investigation TV Chomp) (TV Asahi)
  • Downtown DX (ダウンタウンDX) (NTV)
  • Super J Channel ANN (スーパーJチャンネル ANN) (Friday, TV Asahi)
  • Soreyuke! Marcy (それゆけ!マーシー, Let's go! Marcy, A program sponsored by a business enterprise) (MBS)
  • Guruguru Ninety-Nine (ぐるぐるナインティナイン, guruguru naintinain)
  • It's so cool! (めちゃ2イケてるッ!, mecha-mecha iketeruu!)

Radio

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  • Tashiro Masashi no Super Gang (田代まさしのスーパーギャング, Masashi Tashiro's Super Gang) (Thurdsday, TBS Radio) – October 1986 – March 1987
  • Tashiro Masashi no Say! Young (田代まさしのセイ!ヤング, Masashi Tashiro's Say! Young) (QR)
  • Tashiro Masashi no All Night Nippon (田代まさしのオールナイトニッポン, Masashi Tashiro's All Night Nippon) (LF)

Films

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Music

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See Rats & Star for work as a member of Chanels and Rats & Star.

  • Nījima no Densetsu (新島の伝説, The legend of Nījima) (August 27, 1986)
  • Paradis Latin no Yoru wa Fukete (パラディラタンの夜は更けて, Late in the night of Paradis Latin) (September 21, 1987, as "Shinnosuke & Marcy")
  • Unjarage (ウンジャラゲ) (November 2, 1988, as Ken Shimura & Masashi Tashiro and Daijōbudā family)
  • Nettaiya (熱帯夜, Sultry night) (July 1, 1994, as Marcy & Izumi)
  • Bāsama to Jīsama no Serenade (婆様と爺様のセレナーデ, Serenade for an old man and woman) (December 17, 1993, as Ken & Marcy)
  • Ai ga Natsukashii (愛が懐かしい, Nostalgia for love) (March 8, 1995, as Masashi Tashiro & Kuniko Asagi)
  • Ultra Tengu (ウルトラ☆テング, The ultra long-nosed goblin) (August 14, 2010, as Marcy & Frontier Create)

Books

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  • Tashiro Masashi no Dōtoku Yomihon (田代まさしの道徳読本, Masashi Tashiro's moral handbook) (May 1988, Kōdansha) – ISBN 4-06-103101-5
  • Marcy no Chōhōsoku (マーシーの超法則, Marcy's super law) (April 1994, Magazine house) – ISBN 4-8387-0534-4
  • Shinema de Aishite—Eiga no kazu hodo, Koishitai (シネマで愛して—映画の数ほど、恋したい, Love me in the cinema—I want to be in love almost as same as the number of films) (October 1993, Japan Literary Arts Company) – ISBN 4-537-02384-8
  • Jibaku—The Judgement Day (自爆—THE JUDGEMENT DAY, Self-destruction or suicidal bombing) (July 2002 K2 publishing sale) – ISBN 4-434-02252-0

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Masashi Tashiro is a Japanese entertainer renowned for his multifaceted career as a singer, , and television personality, particularly as a founding vocalist of the 1980s band (formerly the Chanels), with whom he achieved commercial success through hits like the million-selling debut single "Runaway" in 1980. Born on August 31, 1956, in , he transitioned in the mid-1980s from music to under the mentorship of performer , becoming a prominent figure on Japanese variety shows known for his eccentric humor and rapid-fire gags. Tashiro's professional trajectory was significantly disrupted by a series of high-profile scandals beginning in 2000, when he was arrested for attempting to film up a woman's using a at a train station, an incident that contributed to Japan's subsequent mandate for non-disableable shutter sounds on mobile devices to deter . A second peeping offense in December 2001 led to the discovery of approximately 0.4 grams of amphetamines (0.4–0.9 grams per reports) at his home, resulting in a two-year prison sentence suspended for three years after he pleaded guilty to possession and use. Subsequent arrests for drug-related offenses in 2004, 2010, and 2019, along with another voyeurism incident in 2015, led to multiple prison terms, including 3.5 years served from 2005 to 2008, approximately three years from around 2011 to 2014, and 30 months from 2020 to October 2022; he briefly returned to television in December 2024 but faced renewed conviction in March 2025 for stimulant use and possession from November 2024, receiving a 30-month sentence with six months suspended. These repeated legal issues have largely confined Tashiro to fringe media appearances, including a YouTube channel launched in 2023, while mainstream outlets continue to obscure his image in archival footage.

Early Life and Background

Family and Childhood

Masashi Tashiro was born on August 31, 1956, in Prefecture, Japan. Shortly after his birth, his parents divorced when his father, a manager of a chain, left the family for another woman, leaving Tashiro to be raised by his single mother. The family lived in modest circumstances, with his mother working night shifts to support them, often leaving young Tashiro in the care of a landlord during her absences. This single-parent household shaped his early years, instilling a sense of independence amid financial challenges. Around the age of six, in 1962, Tashiro and his mother relocated to , , settling in the Hyakunincho neighborhood just before he began elementary school. The move was prompted by the need for better opportunities following the divorce, though specific economic details remain tied to the family's post-separation hardships. In , they continued their mother-son dynamic, with Tashiro attending a mission-based prior to the relocation. When Tashiro was 13, his mother remarried, leading to tensions with his ; he often stayed at friends' homes and began engaging in delinquent activities, including alcohol and use, which further contributed to his independent streak. Growing up in this environment, Tashiro developed early interests in entertainment through frequent visits to movie theaters, where he immersed himself in films that sparked his fascination with performance and music. The modest household, combined with his mother's resilience and subsequent family disruptions, provided a foundational backdrop for his later pursuits, though it also exposed him to the struggles of urban life in post-war .

Education

Following his family's relocation to Tokyo's Shinjuku district just before elementary school, Tashiro attended local public schools in the area, including in the Hyakunincho neighborhood. Tashiro later enrolled in Senior High School, a technical institution in Ward, , where he completed his . He graduated from the school in March 1975. During high school, Tashiro showed greater engagement with extracurricular activities than traditional academics, immersing himself in youth subcultures such as motorcycles, dancing, street fights, and communal van living. These experiences introduced him to creative outlets, particularly music, as he formed key friendships with aspiring musicians who shared his passion for groups. After graduation, rather than advancing to higher technical studies aligned with his school's engineering focus, Tashiro opted to pursue music professionally. He supported himself through manual jobs, including employment at a gas station and as a truck driver, while nurturing his musical interests alongside high school acquaintances.

Music Career

Formation of The Chanels and Rats & Star

Masashi Tashiro was a founding member of the vocal group The Chanels, established in 1975 during his high school years at Shibaura Institute of Technology High School in Tokyo. Alongside classmates and friends, including future lead vocalist Masayuki Suzuki, bass vocalist Yoshio Sato, and tenor Hiroyuki Kuboki, Tashiro contributed as a tenor vocalist, drawing inspiration from American doo-wop, soul, and funk traditions such as The Channels and Sha Na Na. The group initially formed as an amateur ensemble among music enthusiasts passionate about Black music styles, with Tashiro performing harmonies and participating in choreography during rehearsals and early gigs. In the years following high school graduation around 1975, The Chanels honed their sound through grassroots performances in small venues, including local clubs and community events, while members balanced day jobs such as gas station attendants and truck drivers to support themselves. Tashiro, who worked at a gas station post-graduation, helped sustain the group's momentum amid financial challenges, as they auditioned repeatedly for record labels without success until gaining visibility through amateur contests. A breakthrough came in 1977 when they entered Yamaha's prestigious contest, advancing to the finals alongside emerging acts like , which showcased their tight vocal arrangements and energetic stage presence. This exposure, combined with a 1976 television appearance on the popular program Ginza Now, built their reputation in underground music circles despite rejections from several labels wary of their niche revival style. By late 1979, after persistent efforts and demo recordings, The Chanels secured a with /Sony (now ), marking their transition to professional status. Tashiro's role expanded to include co-writing lyrics and handling backup vocals, emphasizing the group's soulful, rhythmic influences rooted in and R&B. They made their major debut on February 25, 1980, retaining the name The Chanels for initial releases, with Tashiro performing on their first single and produced under the label's Epic imprint. Facing potential legal issues with the luxury brand , the group rebranded as in March 1983, bidding farewell to their original moniker with a sold-out titled Sayonara Chanels Fair at Public Hall. Tashiro remained a core performer in the revamped lineup, which continued to blend , , and elements while expanding their instrumental support with members like trumpeter Nobuyoshi Kuwano and Yasuo Susakawa. This evolution solidified their place in Japan's music scene, with Tashiro's energetic adding depth to the group's harmonious, dance-oriented sound.

Major Successes and Breakup

Rats & Star achieved significant commercial success in the early 1980s, building on their doo-wop-inspired sound and energetic performances. Their debut single, "Runaway" (released under the name The Chanels), topped the Oricon Singles Chart in May 1980 and sold over one million copies, marking a breakthrough that established the group as a rising force in Japanese music. This hit was followed by the 1981 single "Hurricane," which contributed to their growing popularity and helped propel their album Heart & Soul to strong sales of over 510,000 copies that year. By 1983, the group—now fully rebranded as Rats & Star—scored their biggest hit with "Me Gumi no Hito," which reached No. 1 on the Oricon chart and ranked as the 10th best-selling single of the year, while their overall album sales across the decade exceeded two million copies. These achievements highlighted the band's ability to blend soulful harmonies with contemporary pop elements, captivating audiences during a vibrant period for Japanese music. Within the group, Masashi Tashiro played a key role as a tenor vocalist, delivering high-pitched leads that added emotional depth to their tracks and enhanced their signature multi-part vocal arrangements. His contributions extended to the stage, where he helped embody the ensemble's dynamic presence through synchronized choreography and the controversial blackface aesthetic inspired by 1960s American soul acts, which amplified their visual impact during live shows and television appearances. Group dynamics were collaborative yet centered around leader Masayuki Suzuki's vision, with members like Tashiro providing creative input on styling and performance energy that fueled their rise from amateur roots to national stardom. However, as successes mounted, tensions arose from the pressures of fame and individual ambitions, straining the original lineup's cohesion. The group's initial run ended in 1986 amid internal conflicts and evolving industry trends. Diverging career paths, particularly Suzuki's decision to launch a solo career with his debut single "Glass ni Koshita Natsu," led to the effective disbandment, as members pursued separate endeavors—Tashiro transitioning toward entertainment roles. This shift coincided with Japan's music scene moving toward idol pop dominance, where manufactured acts and lighter, youth-oriented sounds overshadowed the soulful, group-harmony style that had defined Rats & Star's appeal. The breakup marked the close of their peak era, though it did not formally dissolve .

Reunions and Later Projects

Following the band's breakup in 1986, reunited in 1996 for a limited six-month period, marking their first major activity in over a decade. The reunion culminated in a special concert titled "RATS & STAR Special Live: Yume de Aetara 1996," presented by , held on April 28 at the in , which drew significant crowds drawn to the nostalgic sound. This was followed by a national tour that included stops at Nagoya's Rainbow Hall and Osaka Castle Hall, allowing Tashiro and his bandmates to perform classic hits alongside new material for enthusiastic audiences. The reunion's centerpiece was the single "Yume de Aetara" (If I Could Meet You in a Dream), a cover of Eiichi Ohtaki's song, released in March 1996 and featured in a commercial, which sold approximately 440,000 copies and peaked at No. 8 on the , rekindling public interest in the group. In July 1996, they issued the double-disc best-of album BACK TO THE BASIC The Very Best of RATS&STAR, compiling remastered hits like "Runaway" and "Tonight" with live recordings from the tour and the new single, achieving moderate commercial success through its appeal to longtime fans. Tashiro contributed as vocalist, helping recapture the group's harmonious energy during these performances. Post-1986, Tashiro ventured into solo music with his debut single "Niijima no Densetsu" (The Legend of Niijima) in August 1986, a track composed by Suzuki with lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, showcasing his vocal range outside the group dynamic; it received limited airplay but marked his brief foray as a lead artist. He also engaged in minor collaborations, including lyric writing for artists like Kyoko Koizumi in the late 1980s, though these were sporadic and overshadowed by his growing entertainment commitments. In the late and early , Tashiro joined occasional anniversary events and informal side projects with members, such as commemorative appearances tied to Suzuki's solo milestones, but his music involvement waned as his comedy career gained prominence and personal challenges mounted, leading to a decline in new releases or tours. Subsequent full reunion discussions in the faltered due to these issues, preventing further revivals.

Comedy and Entertainment Career

Transition to Comedy

Following his departure from Rats & Star in 1986, which served as a catalyst for change, Masashi Tashiro took a hiatus from music and decided to pivot to a career in comedy. His natural comedic talent was recognized by established comedian Ken Shimura of The Drifters, who mentored him and facilitated the transition in the mid-1980s by rebranding him as a variety performer. Tashiro made his debut as a in 1987, quickly developing a distinctive style centered on through puns, creative use of props, and exaggerated facial expressions to enhance his humorous delivery. This approach helped him stand out in the competitive scene, earning him a reputation for innovative routines. In 1988, Tashiro capitalized on his growing popularity by opening his personal shop named "Marcy's"—after his nickname—on Takeshita Street in , , where he sold merchandise inspired by his comedy acts, such as apparel and novelty items. Tashiro achieved early breakthroughs with appearances on variety programs like All Night Fuji, a late-night Fuji TV show that aired from 1983 to 1991, where his energetic performances helped cultivate a dedicated among younger audiences. These opportunities solidified his presence in during the late .

Key Television Roles and Persona

Masashi Tashiro established himself as a prominent tarento in Japanese television during the , leveraging a comedic centered on quick-witted wordplay and inventive physical gags that earned him widespread recognition among audiences. His style, often involving pun-based humor () and clever use of props for effects, contributed to his nickname as a master of comedic timing and visual antics, making him a staple on prime-time programming. Throughout the decade, Tashiro made regular guest appearances on popular variety and music shows, showcasing his refined comedic routines in segments that highlighted his energetic delivery and audience engagement. Notable examples include his role as a guest on the music variety program LOVE LOVE Aishiteru in 1996, where he performed light-hearted skits, and on the children's Hirake! Goma Okoku in 1995, blending humor with interactive elements. He also frequently collaborated with mentor on shows like Ken Shimura's Idiot Feudal Lord and Shimura Ken no Daijoubuda!, refining his persona through recurring bits that emphasized exaggerated expressions and prop-assisted gags. In addition to performing, Tashiro ventured into creative roles behind the scenes, marking his directing debut with comedy sketches for television specials and contributing as the central figure in the 1989 Famicom video game Tashiro Masashi no Princess ga Ippai, which incorporated his signature humorous style into interactive gameplay. This period represented the height of his visibility as a tarento, with his multifaceted presence on variety programs solidifying his status as one of Japan's top entertainers in the 1990s.

Voyeurism Incidents

In September 2000, Masashi Tashiro was arrested at Daikanyama Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line in Ward, , for using a to film up the skirt of a high school girl without consent. The incident involved Tashiro positioning himself to capture the image surreptitiously, prompting immediate police intervention after the victim noticed and alerted authorities. He was subsequently fined ¥50,000 through a summary proceeding and referred to prosecutors, though the case did not proceed to a full due to its classification as a minor violation under Japan's anti- laws at the time. Following the arrest, Tashiro held a public press conference where he issued a formal apology, expressing remorse for his actions and acknowledging the harm caused to the victim and public trust. This led to an immediate temporary suspension of his television and entertainment engagements, with major networks pulling him from ongoing programs and affiliates distancing themselves amid widespread media scrutiny. Japanese outlets, including major dailies, covered the event extensively, framing it as an embarrassing fall from grace for a prominent comedian and highlighting concerns over celebrity accountability in privacy violations. Less than two years later, on the night of December 9, 2001, Tashiro was rearrested in , for peeping through a bathroom window into a neighbor's home, attempting to observe the occupant without permission. Police responded to a report from the resident, who spotted Tashiro outside the property, leading to his detention on-site. The case was referred to the District Prosecutors' Office, but charges were ultimately suspended in favor of more serious drug possession allegations uncovered during a subsequent home search; however, the peeping act itself underscored a pattern of invasive . Tashiro again publicly apologized via media statements, vowing to seek rehabilitation, which resulted in another wave of career suspensions as broadcasters enforced stricter bans on his appearances. Media reports across , from tabloids to national papers, portrayed these back-to-back incidents as indicative of habitual voyeuristic tendencies, amplifying public outrage and contributing to his long-term exclusion from mainstream entertainment. On July 6, 2015, Tashiro was arrested for violating 's anti-nuisance ordinance by filming up a woman's skirt using his on the . He was referred to prosecutors and, on September 1, 2015, the Tokyo Summary Court issued a fine of ¥300,000 through a summary proceeding. This incident further highlighted his recurring issues with , leading to additional media coverage and restrictions on his public activities.

Drug Arrests and Trials

During the investigation into Tashiro's December 9, 2001, peeping arrest, police searched his home in Tokyo's Ota Ward on December 12, 2001, and discovered 0.4 grams of amphetamines. He pleaded guilty to possession and use of the stimulants, receiving a two-year sentence suspended for three years, along with a 50,000 yen fine from the on February 18, 2002. This lenient outcome reflected his status as a first-time offender, but the would later influence subsequent legal proceedings. In September 2004, Tashiro was rearrested for violating the terms of his 2001 after police found stimulants, marijuana, and an illegal at his residence. The convicted him on February 7, 2005, of possession and use of illegal stimulants under the Stimulants Control Law and marijuana under the Cannabis Control Law, sentencing him to three years and six months in prison. He served his term at Yokohama Prison and was released on June 26, 2008, after accounting for and good behavior. This conviction marked a significant escalation, effectively revoking his prior suspension and leading to his first full imprisonment for drug offenses. Tashiro's struggles with addiction continued, culminating in his arrest on September 16, 2010, in , , for possession of approximately 0.3 grams of found in his vehicle. He admitted to the charges, and on October 22, 2010, the imposed a two-year sentence suspended for three years, citing his prior incarceration as a but emphasizing the need for rehabilitation. No fine was reported in this case, but the probationary period underscored ongoing judicial efforts to curb his relapses without immediate re-incarceration. Despite attempts at recovery, including employment as a staff member at the Japan Drug Addiction Rehabilitation Center (DARC) from around 2010 onward, Tashiro relapsed again. He was arrested on November 6, 2019, in Tokyo's Ward and for possession of illegal stimulants and , as well as using the stimulants earlier that year. During his trial, he testified that the drugs provided an "opportunity" to escape personal pressures, but prosecutors highlighted his lack of remorse and history of dependency. The District Court sentenced him to 30 months in prison on March 4, 2020; this was upheld by the High Court on July 29, 2020, despite his appeal for leniency. He was released on October 2022 after serving the effective term with reductions for good conduct. Tashiro's pattern of relapse persisted into late 2024. On November 6, 2024, he was arrested at his condominium for possessing and illegal stimulants, and for using the stimulants on the same day. Admitting to the charges during proceedings, he was convicted by the on March 5, 2025, receiving a 30-month sentence, with six months suspended for two years under conditions. Throughout these incidents, Tashiro's has demonstrated a chronic pattern of despite multiple rehabilitation efforts, including his work at DARC, where he aimed to support others facing similar issues but ultimately failed to maintain sobriety. This cycle has profoundly impacted his family, particularly straining relations with his amid the public scrutiny and repeated incarcerations.

Car Accident

On June 16, 2004, at approximately 1:00 a.m., Masashi Tashiro was involved in a traffic accident on Ōme Kaidō in Umezato 2-chome, Ward, . Driving a passenger car, he executed an illegal in a prohibited area, colliding with a operated by an 18-year-old male student. The impact caused severe injury to the victim, who sustained a of the left . The Police Station investigated the incident as a case of negligent driving causing injury under the Act on Punishment of Traffic Violations Causing Death or Injury, along with a violation of the Traffic Act for the prohibited maneuver. Tashiro was not arrested but had his case referred to public prosecutors for further action. No alcohol or other impairing substances were reported at the scene. The accident occurred during Tashiro's period from an earlier , amplifying scrutiny on his behavior. It generated widespread media coverage and outrage in , effectively halting rumors of his entertainment industry comeback that had been circulating earlier that spring and resulting in his continued absence from public appearances.

Notable Public Incidents

"Person of the Year" Vote

In December 2001, amid Masashi Tashiro's escalating legal troubles, including his arrest for earlier that month, users on the popular Japanese anonymous bulletin board initiated a massive coordinated voting campaign to nominate him as Time magazine's . This grassroots effort, often described as one of the earliest instances of online "poll bombing," rapidly propelled Tashiro to the top of the publication's interactive online poll, surpassing more conventional candidates. The sudden surge in votes for Tashiro garnered widespread international attention, highlighting the disruptive potential of early communities in influencing global media narratives. Japanese and Western outlets covered the phenomenon, noting how 2channel's anonymous users exploited the poll's lack of safeguards to amplify their . However, Time's editorial team soon detected the irregular voting patterns—characterized by synchronized bursts from Japanese IP addresses—and removed Tashiro from the candidate list to preserve the poll's integrity. Media analyses framed the campaign as a satirical protest against celebrity culture, leveraging Tashiro's notoriety from his scandals to mock the superficiality of fame and public polls. Participants on 2channel reportedly viewed it as ironic commentary, turning Tashiro's downfall into a viral meme that underscored the forum's rebellious ethos. Ultimately, Time magazine announced Rudy Giuliani, the mayor of New York City, as the official 2001 Person of the Year on December 24, citing his leadership in the wake of the September 11 attacks; Tashiro's brief poll dominance was relegated to a quirky footnote in the coverage.

Post-Release Activities

Following his release from prison in October 2022 after serving time for prior drug-related offenses, Masashi Tashiro launched his YouTube channel "MARCY'S Channel" on August 4, 2023, where he shares personal vlogs, comedy sketches, and lifestyle content aimed at connecting with fans and those facing personal setbacks. The channel quickly amassed subscribers through videos such as product reviews, live birthday celebrations, and reflective talks, emphasizing themes of resilience and humor drawn from his experiences. In December 2024, Tashiro made his first television appearance since his release. In 2024, Tashiro experienced a into use, resulting in his arrest on November 6, 2024, for possession and use of illegal and , which led to a guilty verdict on March 5, 2025, and a sentence of 30 months in , with 6 months suspended for 2 years with (prosecutors had sought 42 months). Despite the legal setback, he continued public engagements post-verdict, focusing on interviews that highlighted his ongoing recovery efforts. On September 5, 2025, Tashiro participated in a lengthy where he reflected on his trajectory, crediting "cool" influences from his early band days—such as the soulful styles of groups like The Chanels—for shaping his entertainment persona and personal growth. This discussion underscored his attempts to reclaim a positive public image through candid storytelling. In November 2025, Tashiro engaged in a collaborative conversation with comedian Junior Chihara, aired on both their channels on November 2, addressing his rehabilitation process, the emotional toll on his family, and strategies for overcoming . The dialogue included insights into family dynamics strained by his struggles, with Tashiro expressing remorse and commitment to change. Tashiro's broader redemption efforts have involved public admissions of his long-term battles with stimulants, supported by family statements emphasizing the addictive "magic" of the substances and the need for sustained support in recovery. These initiatives, including channel content on despair and perseverance, aim to inspire others while documenting his post-release journey toward stability.

Works and Appearances

Television and Radio

Masashi Tashiro rose to prominence in Japanese television during the as a frequent contributor to variety programming, often leveraging his comedic timing and eccentric persona in panel discussions and sketches. He served as a regular panelist on Downtown DX (Yomiuri Television), participating in quizzes, celebrity interviews, and humorous segments that highlighted his unpredictable style, with the show maintaining strong viewership ratings in the double digits during its peak years. Tashiro's most notable television role came through recurring appearances on Downtown no Gaki no Tsukai ya Arahende!! (Nippon Television), where he joined from the late into the early , contributing to over 50 episodes across regular broadcasts and annual "No Laughing" specials. These included high-stakes punishment games like the "" segment, which drew average ratings above 15% for New Year's editions and showcased Tashiro enduring comedic torments alongside hosts and other guests. His involvement helped cement the program's status as a cornerstone of Japanese comedy, with specials often exceeding 20 million viewers nationwide. In the , prior to his legal troubles intensifying, Tashiro appeared in multiple specials of Shimuru Ken no Baka Densama (), playing supporting roles in period comedy sketches that parodied feudal , typically airing in slots with ratings around 10-12%. Post-2001 hiatus following initial scandals, his television presence shifted to investigative formats like Dangan! Heroes (), where he featured in over 10 episodes exploring personal "clandestine life" themes, such as challenges and probes, broadcast between 2003 and 2006. Radio engagements were less central to Tashiro's career but included hosting duties in later years. In 2009, he fronted the short-lived talk-variety program Tashiro Masashi no Irasshai Marcy on MONDO21 ( channel), airing weekly from to September for 11 episodes, where he interviewed guests on light-hearted topics amid his attempted comeback. Community FM slots followed, such as co-hosting Tashiro, Nakamura, Nanbu, Aqua-chan on Rainbow Town FM in 2010, a weekly evening show blending and local talk until his next interrupted it. Guest appearances in rehabilitative contexts emerged post-release, notably on TBS Radio's Ogigami Chiki Session in December 2016, discussing drug dependency recovery for a single episode that garnered attention for its candidness. Following his 2018 release from , Tashiro's broadcast work remained sporadic and nostalgic, limited to occasional guest spots in formats reflecting on his past. In December 2024, he made a terrestrial TV return on 's Cho Shirabete Mitara, appearing for the first time in over two decades to address issues in a 50-minute segment. This was followed in February 2025 by a cameo in the special Kokumin ga Erabu! Shimuru Ken no Bakusho Best Kont 30 (), featuring archived clips of his collaborations with the late Shimuru Ken, which aired to mixed reactions but drew 6.6% ratings. These limited outings emphasized reflection over active hosting, aligning with his reduced media footprint. In addition to traditional media, Tashiro launched his YouTube channel "MARCY'Sちゃんねる" in 2023, where he regularly posts videos discussing his personal experiences, performing comedy sketches, and sharing recovery insights, amassing a dedicated audience as of November 2025.

Films and Directing

Masashi Tashiro transitioned from his prominent role in Japanese television to occasional in during the 1990s, leveraging his comedic persona in supporting and lead roles within comedies and genre pieces. In 1993, he appeared in Jun Ichikawa's (Kurêpu), portraying a character in this drama that explored everyday life in a setting alongside actress . His film appearances also included cameo roles in science fiction and action fare, such as a brief turn as a toy shop owner in the 1999 ensemble film Ultraman Tiga & Ultraman Dyna & Ultraman Gaia: Battle in Hyperspace, a crossover special that featured multiple actors from the Ultraman series. Beyond acting, Tashiro ventured into directing in the early 2000s, primarily focusing on low-budget (V-Cinema) projects in the yakuza genre, which marked a shift toward behind-the-scenes work in independent-style productions. Notable among these was his directorial debut on Jitsuroku: Kyushu Yakuza Senso II - Kyaran (2003), a gritty installment in the "Real Record: Yakuza Wars" series that depicted gang conflicts and rivalries. He also handled direction for Jitsuroku: Kuzekido Gaiden - Yakuza no Tomurai Uta (2002), an offshoot exploring themes of loyalty and retribution within narratives. These efforts involved collaborations with fellow Japanese entertainers and B-movie actors common to the V-Cinema scene, such as performers from theater and television backgrounds, often produced by smaller studios like Toei Video for niche distribution. Tashiro's output in films and directing remained limited, with only a handful of credits across both disciplines, largely due to career interruptions from legal controversies beginning in the early 2000s that sidelined his professional activities for extended periods. Despite this, his contributions highlighted a versatility from comedic cameos to action-oriented direction in indie-adjacent projects, reflecting the transient nature of his post-television endeavors.

Music and Books

Masashi Tashiro transitioned to solo music endeavors following the dissolution of in 1985, building on the foundations established during his group tenure. His debut solo single, "新島の伝説" (Niijima no Densetsu), released on August 27, 1986, by , featured composition by former bandmate and lyrics by Akimoto Yasushi. The track, a nostalgic reflecting Tashiro's personal anecdotes from his youth, marked his only major solo single release in the and received modest attention for its melodic simplicity amid his rising television fame. Subsequent singles included "パラダイラタンの夜は更けて" (Paradiratan no Yoru wa Fukakete) in September 1987, a collaborative effort with singer Shinnosuke, and "婆様" (Baba-sama) in December 1993, both exploring lighthearted, rhythmic themes typical of his doo-wop influences. In the 1990s, Tashiro ventured into duet releases, such as the 1994 single "熱帯夜/真夏のエクスタシー" (Nettaiya / Manatsu no Ecstasy) with singer Izumi, which blended pop and summer-themed motifs but achieved limited chart presence. His solo output waned during this period due to his primary focus on entertainment, though later collaborations revived his musical contributions. In 2008, following his release from incarceration, Tashiro issued the album Nipopo Rakuen Dotō no Ongakuryoku (Nipopo Paradise Torrential Musical Power), a quirky collection incorporating electronic and experimental elements produced in partnership with artist Nipopo. The album, released independently, garnered niche interest for its unconventional style but faced distribution challenges due to its provocative content. Tashiro's later music includes guest vocals on tracks like "Hater" from RYKEY's 2018 album RYKEY a.k.a. GAMI and the 2016 rap collaboration "リハビリマーシー" (Rehab Mercy) featuring D.O., Han a.k.a. GAMI, and RYKEY, which addressed themes of recovery and redemption through hip-hop. Overall, Tashiro's solo releases emphasized personal storytelling over commercial hits, with critical reevaluation in recent years highlighting his enduring doo-wop vocal prowess and innovative fusion of black music traditions with Japanese pop. Tashiro has authored several autobiographical books chronicling his career highs, personal struggles, and path to rehabilitation, often in or comic formats to convey lessons from his experiences. His 2002 publication Jibaku: The Judgement Day (Self-Destruction: The Judgement Day) candidly detailed the scandals that derailed his career, serving as an early confessional work aimed at accountability and public reflection. In 1994, Marcy's Super Laws (マーシーの超法則) offered humorous insights into life and drawn from his comedy background, presenting over 100 "rules" for navigating fame with a light, observational tone. The 2015 comic Marcy's Drug Rehabilitation Diary (マーシーの薬物リハビリ日記), co-illustrated by Jin Kitamura and published by Taiwando, provided a raw account of his drug battles, including seven years in and ongoing at a DARC facility, emphasizing drug dangers through personal anecdotes and warnings against substances like and . This book, promoted via lectures, received positive feedback for its accessibility in raising awareness about recovery. More recently, in July 2025, Tashiro released Heart's Prescription (こころの処方箋), an collection compiling inspirational quotes and stories from historical figures that aided his resurgence, underscoring themes of resilience and amid his life's controversies. These works, while not bestsellers, have been valued for their unfiltered , contributing to Tashiro's narrative of redemption through writing.

References

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