Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony composer resigns amid backlash for bullying disabled classmate

TOKYO — A Japanese musician resigned Monday from his role on the creative team for the opening ceremony at the Tokyo Olympics amid backlash for bullying a classmate with disabilities during his childhood.

Keigo Oyamada, who is also known as Cornelius, announced his resignation on social media Monday night. He had been slated to compose music for the opening ceremony. 

"I sincerely accept the opinions and advice I have received, express my gratitude, and will keep them in mind for my future actions and thoughts," Oyamada wrote on Twitter and Facebook.

"I apologize from the bottom of my heart."

Oyamada previously apologized for his actions, but calls for him to bow out from Friday's opening ceremony persisted.

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In a statement late Monday, the Tokyo 2020 organizing committee said Oyamada's actions were "absolutely unacceptable."

"In light of his sincere apology, we expressed a willingness to allow Mr. Oyamada to continue his work on preparations in the short time remaining before the Opening Ceremony," the organizing committee said in a statement. "However, we have come to believe that this decision was wrong, and we have decided to accept his resignation.

"We offer our deepest apologies for the offense and confusion caused to so many during this time."

It is unclear whether the music for the opening ceremony will be modified in light of Oyamada's resignation.

Even beyond the music, few details are known about the opening ceremony, even as it quickly approaches. Masa Takaya, a spokesperson for Tokyo 2020, declined to answer questions from reporters Monday about how many athletes will be permitted to march in the traditional "Parade of Nations," or how many VIPs or dignitaries will be allowed to attend.

"I can't comment further on the ceremony's details because I am not allowed," Takaya said with a laugh.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

Contact Tom Schad at tschad@usatoday.com or on Twitter @Tom_Schad.