SMAP donated over 400 million yen in private
Our reporters found out that the 5 members of popular group SMAP has donated individually to Japan Red Cross, totaling to over 400 million yen. They did not make donations as SMAP, rather, they volunteered in private, individually, to donate the money after the earthquake. In addition to that money, all members have donated their appearence fees for the live broadcast SMAPXSMAP from March 21st. Kusanagi has also donated his appearence fee for FNS special music program from March 27th. SMAP is supporting those affected by the disaster both materially and emotionally.
This heart-warming action shows that SMAP is well deserved in being called "The National Group."
Right after the East Japan Earthquake the members individually donated to Japan Red Cross, "I would like to contribute however I can as one human being. If there is anything I can do." They did not talk over it with each other to make the donation as a group, instead each member decided on his own to donate from their own pockets, in private. Even though the individual donations varied in their amounts, the sum of the 5 donations is over 400 million yen.
SMAP feels greatly pained by the disaster. On Fuji TV program SMAPXSMAP that was aired live on March 21st, they asked for unity and donations from the whole nation, with the theme "Right now what can we do to help?" In addition, TV Asahi program "SMAP Ganbarimasu!!", scheduled to air on April 2nd, will show a corner related to the earthquake. They are taking the initiative in supporting the reconstruction of the earthquake.
In the new AC commercials under the theme "Believe in Japan's Strength," SMAP encouraged the victims of the disasters: "You are never alone. We are all backing you up." "Let's all have the spirit of give-and-take, help each other and believe in the future, now is the time to unite as one." The 5 members have also declared that they will take part in the future support projects that Johnny's Agency will organize.
The members did not talk about their donations, only saying "we are only doing what we can." On the other hand Johnny's Agency has admitted to SMAP donating money, but refused to disclose the exact amount, saying "While it is true donations were made, please excuse us from not disclosing the amount as it is only a token of their support for those affected by the disaster."
Translation credits: elyn524
Source: www.daily.co.jp/gossip/article/2011/03/28/0003900459.shtml
NOTE:
(1) 400 million yen is an estimated 4.9 million US dollars.