having been in tokyo for the earthquake, and now here reading the news of a potential radiation leak, (and this is NOT directed at the OP), the thought of someone using gold status to guarantee a seat, at the expense of an already booked passenger, would be unthinkable.

Priority for any available seats, or last minute no-shows, yes, but any passenger demanding they get a seat, at the expense of another in such an emergency would be cowardly.