Top Female Idol Criticized After Shaving Hair Off After Fan-Relationship Controversy

AKB48 fans were shocked when member Hanada Mei‘s contract was terminated, but her recent actions have sparked backlash.

It was recently revealed that Hanada Mei’s contract had been terminated, making it the first time in the company’s history, due to being caught in a relationship with a fan.

Popular Girl Group Idol Gets Caught In Secret Relationship With Fan, Company Instantly Terminates Contract

A fan shared that Hanada had posted a video and statement on her X account, but it sparked shock as she had shaved her hair off.

Hanada Mei shares statement.

She has shaved her head.

— 48RH (@48RequestHour) June 23, 2026

The reason it sparked criticism from fans was linked to former AKB48 member Minegishi Minami shaving her hair in 2013 due to a dating scandal.

Where Is She Now? The Idol Who Shaved Her Head After Being Caught Dating Has A Completely Different Life

Netizens thought it was wrong and disrespectful to seemingly imitate the traumatic moment for many fans from over 13 years ago, and they also thought Hanada was mocking Minegishi.

I am in complete disbelief. I am torn between knowing she needs help and being beyond pissed. This is insane.

— 🎀Puririn🎀 (@okkiminokachi) June 23, 2026

Girl just permanently set akb48 back by a decade

— Reyn¹²🏹🪽| Nishikawa Nanami Charts (@ReynTheWorld) June 23, 2026

Wait wtf? Wtf is she doing? Isn’t shaving one’s head is to show remorse??? It’s like she’s making fun of Miichan

— Dottore Hater | Sandrone, please come home! (@Hydra_Verb) June 23, 2026

She thought she ate, but she’s not

— cynon kaname (skz and enha cb era) (@cynon_akiyama) June 23, 2026

MESSYYYY

— 🤨 (@__ONLYTOODAY) June 23, 2026