Knock Yokoyama, Japanese politician (b. 1932)

Knock Yokoyama, a name synonymous with both Japanese comedy and politics, lived a life marked by significant public presence and a dramatic fall from grace. Born Isamu Yamada (山田勇) in Kobe on January 30, 1932, he would later become a household name across Japan before his passing on May 3, 2007. His career trajectory was unique, transitioning from the vibrant world of entertainment to the demanding realm of public service, only to face a highly publicized scandal that brought his political career to an end.

The Comedian: From Kobe to the National Stage

Isamu Yamada's journey to stardom began in the lively entertainment scene, where he adopted the stage name Knock Yokoyama (横山 ノック). He rose to prominence as a central figure and director of the popular Manga Trio manzai troupe, active from 1959 to 1968. Manzai is a traditional and highly beloved style of Japanese stand-up comedy, typically performed by a duo engaging in rapid-fire banter, witty exchanges, and sometimes slapstick. Yokoyama's leadership of the Manga Trio not only showcased his comedic talent but also his skill in direction and management, establishing him as a well-recognized and charismatic entertainer throughout Japan.

A Surprising Turn: From Comedy to Construction

Following his successful years in comedy, Yokoyama embarked on a career pivot that surprised many but demonstrated his versatility. He transitioned from the stage lights into the world of business, specifically the construction industry. During this period, he served as a director at several major construction firms situated in the Kansai region. The Kansai region, a significant economic and cultural hub in western Japan encompassing major cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, provided a robust environment for his business endeavors. This experience in a more traditional corporate setting, away from the glitz of entertainment, subtly laid a foundation for his eventual foray into public administration, offering him insights into regional development and governance.

Governorship of Osaka: A Celebrity Politician's Rise

In 1995, Knock Yokoyama made his definitive leap into politics, successfully campaigning for and winning the position of governor of Osaka Prefecture. Running as an independent candidate, his existing fame and broad appeal as a comedian were instrumental in securing widespread public support. The phenomenon of "celebrity politicians" is not uncommon in Japan, where public figures from entertainment or sports often leverage their popularity to gain political office, often bypassing traditional political pathways. After his election, Yokoyama formally joined the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Japan's long-dominant conservative political party. His tenure as governor was marked by significant public popularity, largely attributable to his recognizable public persona and the trust he had cultivated with the electorate during his entertainment career. He was seen by many as an approachable and dynamic leader, bringing a refreshing perspective to prefectural governance.

The Scandal and Its Aftermath: A Public Figure's Downfall

However, Yokoyama's political career took a severe and public hit in 2000. A 21-year-old woman, who had served as a campaign volunteer during his election, came forward with grave accusations of sexual harassment. She alleged that Governor Yokoyama had groped her for approximately 30 minutes in the back of a campaign vehicle. Yokoyama vehemently denied these charges, leading to a highly publicized and scrutinizing legal battle. The Osaka District Court heard the case, and in a significant ruling, found Yokoyama liable for the claims, ordering him to pay ¥11 million (approximately $100,000 at the time) in damages. During the trial, a notable detail was the plaintiff's testimony from behind an opaque screen, a measure taken to protect her identity and ensure her privacy amidst the intense media scrutiny. Following this damning judgment and the resulting public outcry, Knock Yokoyama resigned from his position as governor. His resignation paved the way for Fusae Ohta, a female bureaucrat affiliated with the LDP, to become his successor, marking a new chapter for Osaka's leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions About Knock Yokoyama

Who was Knock Yokoyama?
Knock Yokoyama (born Isamu Yamada) was a prominent Japanese figure known for his dual careers as a popular comedian and, later, as a successful politician who served as the governor of Osaka Prefecture.
What was the "Manga Trio"?
The Manga Trio was a well-known manzai (Japanese stand-up comedy) troupe from 1959 to 1968, which Knock Yokoyama directed and was a central member of, contributing significantly to his early fame.
How did Knock Yokoyama become governor of Osaka?
He successfully ran as an independent candidate for governor of Osaka Prefecture in 1995, largely leveraging his pre-existing fame and popularity as a comedian. After his election, he joined the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
What led to Knock Yokoyama's resignation as governor?
Knock Yokoyama resigned in 2000 following a sexual harassment scandal. A former campaign volunteer accused him of groping her, and despite his denials, the Osaka District Court found him liable for damages, leading to his resignation.
Who replaced Knock Yokoyama as governor of Osaka?
He was replaced by Fusae Ohta, an LDP bureaucrat, who became the first female governor of Osaka Prefecture.