'The Journalist' Investigative Reporter Ryoko Yonekura's Home Raided in Drug Case
Tokyo: 50-year-old Japanese top actress Ryoko Yonekura, who plays Anna Matsuda, a determined investigative newspaper reporter in the Netflix series "The Journalist," has been embroiled in a drug case. Reports indicate that the Drug Enforcement Division of the Kanto Shinetsu Health Bureau of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is investigating Yonekura for violations of the Drug Enforcement Act.
Yonekura's character in "The Journalist" exposes political scandals and social issues in modern Japan, emphasizing topics such as press freedom and government corruption. However, in real life, Matsuda herself is under investigation. Japanese authorities are investigating her due to strong suspicions of drug involvement. Several substances and use equipment were found in her home that violate the Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating Yonekura in June after receiving information about her drug use. Yonekura's Tokyo residence was raided on August 20th to seize suspected drugs. Investigating officials have confirmed Yonekura's activities for approximately four months since receiving the intelligence.
Following the DEA raid on her home, Yonekura went on vacation to Europe and stayed in London for approximately two weeks. Yonekura returned to Japan on September 6th. After returning home, she canceled three consecutive concerts and declined endorsement deals. Some cited health reasons, but following the drug report, analysts believe the suspension was due to the investigation.
Ryoko Yonekura has not updated her social media since August 19, 2025.
She revealed in 2019 that she was suffering from cerebrospinal fluid decline, and in 2022, she left the musical "Chicago" due to severe lower back pain and sacroiliac joint problems. While reports of his recovery after surgery emerged, it was reported that his condition was not back to normal.
Yonekura gained many domestic fans in 2012 through the TV Asahi drama "Doctor X~Demon Michiko~." The series' theatrical version, "Doctor X Final," was completed last year.
The Amazon Prime film "Angel Flight The Movie" will be released in 2026. If Yonekura is found guilty of drug possession, he will be suspended from the film's release and face a heavy fine.
