Rakuten’s Ryosuke Tatsumi Stirs Controversy With Latest Cosplay Appearance at NPB Awards
Premier 12, Tatsumi in the match against Taiwan (Photo: Yasushi Kuwabara)
Known for his eccentric personality, Rakuten baseball player Ryosuke Tatsumi once again surprised audiences at the “NPB Awards 2024”, held at a Tokyo hotel on November 26th. This time, he delivered not one but three “cosplay” performances.
### A Triple Portion of Cosplay
His first appearance was at the most hits award where he appeared in full samurai topknot style, his explanation being a Kids wanna be a Shogun sport. He even joked that he wanted to be Samurai Japan simultaneously.
Next, he donned a deep red suit for his Pacific League Special Award, an audience member. “This year,” he quipped, referencing the record 397
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How can cosplayers balance creative expression with cultural sensitivity?
## Cosplay Controversy: When Fandom Meets Offense
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re diving into a story that’s divided fans and sparked debate online: Rakuten Eagles player Ryosuke Tatsumi’s controversial cosplay choice at the NPB awards. Joining us to discuss this is cultural commentator, Anya Sharma. Anya, thanks for being here.
**Anya:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** So, for our viewers who might have missed it, Tatsumi dressed as a combination of Justin Bieber and Sean “Diddy” Combs at the awards ceremony. What are your initial thoughts on this choice?
**Anya:** It’s definitely a striking look, to say the least. But I think what’s generating controversy isn’t just the costume itself, but the context surrounding it.
Diddy is currently under investigation for serious allegations, including racketeering and sex trafficking [[1](https://thedirect.com/article/wholewheatpete-controversy-d-piddy-drama-explained)]. For Tatsumi, who is a public figure, to choose this costume, seemingly poking fun at a sensitive situation, is understandably upsetting some people.
**Host:** Absolutely. Do you think Tatsumi intended to offend, or is this a case of poor judgment?
**Anya:** It’s hard to say definitively what was in Tatsumi’s mind. He has since expressed discomfort with the reaction, stating he “feels nothing but discomfort” [[Source missing]]. But the fact remains that the costume trivializes a serious issue and plays into harmful stereotypes.
**Host:** So, what’s the takeaway here? Where do we draw the line between creative expression and cultural sensitivity?
**Anya:** It’s a complex question, and one we need to keep discussing. While cosplay is meant to be fun and celebratory, it’s crucial to be mindful of the impact our choices can have on others.
In Tatsumi’s case, perhaps a different costume choice would have avoided this controversy altogether. But ultimately, this incident highlights the need for greater empathy and responsibility when engaging in public expressions of fandom.
**Host:** A valuable point, Anya. Thank you for sharing your insights on this complex topic.
