
Pink Lady: The most famous idol duo in Japanese history also crashed and burned in the most famous fashion. On New Year's Eve 1978-79 PL, or their handlers, depending on who you believe, turned down an invitation to appear on Kohaku Uta Gassen (Red-and-White Song Contest, a long running and immensely popular TV talent show broadcast every New Year's Eve) in favor of a competing charity show on another network called Pink Lady Ase to Namida no Omisoka 150 Pun! (Pink Lady's 150 Minutes of Sweat and Tears on New Year's Eve!). In Japanese show business terms, this was the equivalent of passing on the Grammys to perform on a cable TV telethon in the same time slot. (info courtosy of pinkladyamerica.com) From that tragic mistake, it was all but over for PL as they would never have chart topping success again and would have to star on the worst American TV show of all time a year later.

Onyanko Club: The cast of thousands that would inspire the creation of Morning Musume, made a tragic public miscue when they decided to go Dixie Chicks and get political during a tv special. Their popularity died right there and then and less than 6 months later would give their farewell concert.

Hikaru Utada: Getting married, losing her looks (not that she was all that hot to begin with,) and her voice refusing to age well all happening at the same time. Nuff said.

Ayumi Hamasaki: If she marrys a gay American, this would top Pink Lady's fall from grace.
Those are mine, how about your's?