Famed Japanese comedian Hitoshi Matsumoto is making a comeback, stepping back into the spotlight despite facing significant challenges. The reasons behind his departure from the public eye have been a topic of intense public speculation, with many pinning it on pressure from his role within the highly competitive Japanese entertainment industry. Now, as he returns, Matsumoto is set to face the demanding nature of his profession once more.
In Japan, the comeback of a significant figure in the entertainment industry can be a major event. Public figures such as Matsumoto often face immense pressure due to Japan's focus on the collective, work ethic, and strict professional expectations. Abuse, either physical or mental, can often silently lurk behind the scenes.
In the U.S or EU, public figures often take breaks from their careers for their mental health, citing the pressures of fame and the frequency of burnout in the industry. There is generally more emphasis in Western society on the right of the individual to prioritize their own wellbeing over their career.