On March 25, 2025, actress Aya Ueto attended the launch event for a new product, the "Meiji W no Skin Care Yogurt," and its accompanying commercials in Tokyo. At 39 years old, Ueto, who is a mother of three, shared insights into her bustling life as she also promoted the product.
Dressed in a floral-patterned dress that evoked the fresh essence of spring, Ueto captivated the reporters at the event, where Meiji Co., Ltd. debuted its new advertisements titled "Taihen" and "Sotogawa." During the presentation, she painted a picture of her hectic daily schedule, shedding light on her dual role as an actress and a dedicated mother.
Ueto begins her day early, typically waking up at 6 AM with the help of her spirited third child, who, as she humorously noted, "wakes everyone up bright and early." While early mornings may sound appealing to some, Ueto confessed, "It’s a major inconvenience, you know?" Her husband, Hiro, a member of the famous EXILE group, helps prep breakfast, which is a small yet cherished relief in their busy mornings.
"Breakfast is prepared by Dad, and while we're eating, I encourage the kids to start their studying. This routine not only helps keep the mornings productive but also reduces the likelihood of me having to nag them later on," Ueto explained. Despite these efforts, Ueto admitted that managing both work and family often leads her to forget meals herself. "I sometimes forget lunch and find myself eating standing up in the kitchen, often gulping down my food amid chores. I can imagine that many moms can relate to that scenario," she described, acknowledging the common struggles faced by busy parents.
March 25, the same day as the event, is also known as "Strolling GO Day," a fitting theme considering the arrival of the cherry blossom season in Japan. Ueto shared her heartfelt desire to return to her hometown and partake in hanami (flower viewing) with her children. "In my hometown, there's a large park famous for its cherry blossoms. I have beautiful memories of enjoying hanami as a child, and I wish to recreate those moments with my kids," she expressed, her eyes lighting up at the thought.
Reflecting deeper on her busy life, she explained how mornings can sometimes slip away from them too quickly. "I always tell my kids that the morning time goes by fast, so they must prioritize what they need to do. I remind them to complete their tasks first thing, so we don’t waste the morning," she said, displaying the common worries of a mother trying to instill good habits in her children.
Moreover, Ueto explained how her workload varies greatly depending on the work she is involved in. "On days where I’m engaged in films or dramas, I might be up since 5 AM and working late into the night. But for these magazine and commercial days, I maintain that morning schedule, which helps balance my busy lifestyle," she remarked, emphasizing the adaptability required to manage her career and family life.
Ueto candidly spoke about the constraints of motherhood, making relatable statements that resonate with many parents. Her truths reflect the juggle between professional obligations and the needs of her family, and it’s this authenticity that makes her a beloved public figure.
Finally, as she positioned her new product, the "Meiji W no Skin Care Yogurt," Ueto noted the importance of skincare in her life, shedding light on how her family also enjoys the product. "My entire family drinks products from Meiji; it's important for both beauty and health," she remarked, showcasing her commitment to aesthetics and well-being not just for herself but her entire family.
As a public figure, Ueto continues to inspire many with her juggling act of stardom and motherhood, portraying not only the glamour of celebrity life but also the unvarnished reality of being a parent. This event highlighted both her personal journey and the evolving narrative of a well-respected actress who continues to thrive in her career while nurturing her family.