Prime time is not dominated by scripted dramas (though they exist), but by Waratte Iitomo! style variety shows. These shows don't just interview celebrities; they force them to play absurd games, eat weird foods, and endure physical comedy (batsu games). In a society where honne (true feelings) are hidden behind tatemae (public facade), variety shows are a pressure valve. Watching a stoic actor scream while getting a pie in the face is cathartic for a disciplined population.
Forget the Western model of the "tortured artist." J-Pop is an industry of precision engineering. The market is dominated by three major forces: Johnny & Associates (male idols), AKB48 Group (female idols), and the rock bands of Being, Inc. Prime time is not dominated by scripted dramas