Yoji Asano: ‘American Idol’ Hopeful Arrested And Charged With Attempted Rape
American Idol hopeful Yoji Asano was arrested and charged with attempted rape. In 2011, the self-proclaimed “Japanese King of Rock” gained national attention during his audition for the popular singing talent show. Although he was rejected by the judges, Asano’s performance was unforgettable.
The real I am king and i will be back world…
— Yoji Asano (@MrYojiAsano) January 21, 2011
Prior to his audition, Asano introduced himself as Yoji “Pop,” explaining that he likes to imitate Michael Jackson. He then announced that he would be singing Miley Cyrus’ “Party in the U.S.A.“ Clad in a silver jacket, cowboy boots, and several layers of mascara, Yoji Asano sang his rendition of Cyrus’ song while performing Michael Jackson dance moves. Unfortunately, the judges were unimpressed.
Although Asano was rejected as an American Idol, his audition clip soon went viral. As evidenced by several Facebook groups and Twitter posts, he eventually built a small, but devoted fan base.
Yoji “Pop” Asano LOL because of him i fell in love with party in the USA again — ?? (@Chantii_Rii) February 6, 2011
everytime i listen to “party in the usa” Yoji Asano pops in my mind
— Eriana Wijaya (@erianawijaya) May 18, 2011
Yoji Asano’s talent is questionable. However, his enthusiasm was indeed charming. Unfortunately, his reputation is now clouded by a serious accusation.
In August 2014, Asano and an unidentified 25-year-old female friend were hanging out in Manhattan. Later that evening, the woman agreed to let Asano sleep on her couch.
In the middle of the night, Yoji Asano reportedly creeped into his sleeping friend’s bedroom, climbed into her bed, and attempted to perform a sexual act.
As reported by Hollywood, the woman woke up with her friend “lying on top of her… attempting to have sex with her.” When she finally managed to fight him off, Asano fled the apartment and went into hiding.
Although it took six months, Yoji Asano was located and arrested on February 12. As reported by New York Post, he is charged with felony attempted rape and felony attempted sexual abuse. Although he posted $2,500 bond on Monday, he reportedly spent the weekend in Rikers Island jail.
Asano’s attorney, Stephen McCarthy, refused to discuss the charges. However, he did say that he “expects [his client] to be fairly treated.”
Yoji Asano appeared in the Manhattan Criminal Court on Tuesday morning and is scheduled to return on April 28 for further proceedings. He has not issued a public statement regarding the accusations.
[Image via Facebook]
