Japan actor fired from beer ad after drunken escapade

A popular Japanese actor hired to be the wholesome face of a low-alcohol beer has been fired after getting drunk and breaking into his neighbor's home, officials said.

Drinks giant Asahi Breweries booked Ryo Yoshizawa, who one fashion magazine said has "national treasure-class handsomeness," for a 3.5-percent Super Dry Dry Crystal beer commercial.

But the 30-year-old, one of Japan's most popular actors, returned home on December 30, perhaps having consumed something more substantial.

Yoshizawa was "drunk" and "accidentally" made his way into an apartment room next to his," his talent agency Amuse said in a statement Monday.

"I've lost my memories. I think I just went in without asking because I wanted to use the bathroom," Yoshizawa was quoted by local media as telling police.

Asahi Group Holdings spokesperson Shiori Shimizu told AFP on Tuesday that "we have decided to terminate our contract" with Yoshizawa.

"As an alcohol beverage company, we consider his actions unacceptable," Shimizu said.

"We will no longer use him in our future advertisements," she added.

Amuse said Yoshizawa apologized to his surprised neighbor for the "major trouble he caused" and that the actor had already vacated the apartment.

Like other countries, drinking has been declining in Japan, with low-percentage and alcohol-free beers -- and even abstaining -- growing in popularity, especially among younger people.