Ryosuke Horii, director of the Yakuza Kiwami 3 remake (and Dark Ties), has responded to criticism over the casting of Teruyuki Kagawa. Horii defended choosing Kagawa for the part because the actor matched the unsettling character the team wanted, while fans have reacted strongly after a 2022 magazine report accused Kagawa of sexual assault.

  • Horii explained that the cast decision was driven by the actor’s ability to convey an unpleasant, sleazy presence appropriate to the role.
  • The controversy stems from a 2022 report in Shukan Shincho that alleged sexual assault by Kagawa, which triggered fan backlash once the casting was announced.
  • Kagawa issued an apology in 2022 but did not clarify the specifics of the accusations or confirm the events detailed in the report.
  • The discussion has put the remake’s casting choices under scrutiny as players and observers weigh artistic fit against ethical concerns.

Source: Rock Paper Shotgun

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