49-year-old actor Tsuyoshi Muro made a highly anticipated return to the popular talk show 'Tetsuko's Room' on February 26, sharing personal insights nine years after his last appearance. This episode, aired on TV-Asahi, marked Muro's candid reflection on his childhood and familial relationships.
During his previous visit, Muro had revealed the deep emotional scars left by his parents' divorce when he was just four years old. He disclosed having never met his mother since their separation. Thankfully, some years later, after sharing his story on the television show of comedian Sanma Akashiya, Muro received a heartfelt letter: "I am your mother. Can we meet?" This compelling message initiated their eventual reunion.
Muro recounted, "It was about six to seven years ago when I first met her after receiving the letter. It was immensely emotional, but I felt grateful. The words I was finally able to say were, 'Thank you for giving birth to me.'" This moment, over 40 years after they last saw each other, was significant for Muro, who described the experience as overwhelmingly positive rather than overwhelming with complex emotions.
Reflecting on this reunion, Muro explained, "I told her not to apologize, as I have lived my life without blaming my upbringing. It was important for me to communicate my gratitude. This time was about acknowledging the past and moving forward." He insisted on protecting the feelings of his adoptive family—the aunt and her family who raised him after his parents split.
Muro's father, who had gained custody after the divorce, had not been part of his life either, with their last meaningful interaction occurring when Muro was 22, before he embarked on his acting career. Remarkably, Muro still holds affection for his father, reminiscing about the admiration he had for his father's independence and freedom. "It’s like I respect him as a man rather than just as my dad," Muro confessed.
Despite not having lived with his father for years, Muro has maintained occasional communication, recalling one phone call when his father asked, "Tsuyoshi, when can we meet?" Muro chuckled at the casualness of their discussions, noting, "He seems to be doing well, and it's nice to know he has his own happiness."
During his time on 'Tetsuko's Room,' Muro expressed deep appreciation for the aunt's family who raised him. He has grown closer to them, expressing his desire to show them love as they age. Part of this effort involves spending quality time together, whether through family meals or thoughtful get-togethers.
While discussing his paternal relationships, Muro also humorously shared how his grandmother responded to his single status, playfully laughing when asked about his girlfriend. "She jokingly stated I’ll never marry," Muro recalled. This lighthearted banter adds to the sense of warmth and family bonds Muro cherishes, showcasing the light moments even amid serious discussions of relationships.
Muro's reflections were timely, as they coincided with the 30th anniversary of 'Tetsuko's Room,' where the host Tetsuko Kuroyanagi shared touching memories of iconic singer Seiko Matsuda. Kuroyanagi highlighted her fondness for Matsuda's unwaveringly beautiful voice over decades.
This juxtaposition of past and present themes was at the center of Muro's narrative—a blend of poignant memories and aspirations for continuity with loved ones. Muro is not just nourishing his relationships but is also reshaping his views on family through these connections.
Through his heartfelt recollections, Muro has found maturity and comfort, allowing him to share vulnerabilities and lean on those who have shaped his life. This return to the spotlight on 'Tetsuko's Room' serves not just as entertainment but also as demonstration of personal growth, resilience, and the importance of family ties.