The wrestling world tragically lost Hana Kimura, 22, on May 23.
Kimura committed suicide after being cyberbullied over an incident that occurred on reality show Terrace House. On the show, Hana was upset that co-star Kai Kobayashi accidentally shrunk her wrestling costume in the wash, leading to Hana slapping the hat off Kai's head. The incident led to many attacking Hana online.
Speaking to Bunshun (translations via @farrahakase), Hana's mom Kyoko Kimura spoke out against Terrace House.
Kyoko says Hana told her that the producers were forcing her to behave more obnoxiously and pressured her to behave more violently for the show. Hana told them that she wanted to act professionally. In regards to the hat incident, she was told to slap Kai in the face, but she refused. They compromised on her knocking his hat off.
Hana also sent messages to her friend that explained producers wanted her to act obnoxious and violent for ratings. She wrote, "my work uniform just got destroyed, and the staff wanted me to act sharp in front of the camera."
Kai confirmed that the producers would pressure her.
The episode re-aired on FujiTV five days before Hana's death. She was watching and texted her friend, "This is becoming a hot topic. I guess the producers are satisfied."
Terrace House halted production following Hana's death and the Japanese government began discussing cyberbullying legislation.
