Ai Higa, the celebrated Japanese actress, recently announced her departure from Rising Production Holdings, the agency she had been with for years. On January 31, Higa declared on her social media platforms, "I will finish my contract with Rising Production Holdings and leave the agency." This decision has stirred considerable interest, particularly as she is currently co-starring with Gaku Ichikawa in the TV program 'Forest.'
Higa's artistic evolution is behind her decision to part ways with her long-time agency. Hailing from Gushikawa City, Okinawa, Higa is the eldest of three siblings and has familial ties tracing back to the Ryukyu Dynasty. During promotional events for her film 'Cannon' released in 2016, she revealed, "My 101-year-old great-grandmother told me, 'We are descendants of the Ryukyu royal family.'" Her foray began when she was scouted by a modeling agency at the age of fifteen, leading her to pursue acting after moving to Tokyo.
Reflecting on her financial struggles when she first arrived, Higa once recounted, "I had only 200,000 yen saved, and I even begged my parents to support me." At Rising, she was surrounded by renowned Okinawan talents, including Namie Amuro and Ryoko Kuninaka, adding to her sense of belonging.
While she initially gained attention as the heroine of 'Donburi' (2007), her rise to fame was slow, and she eventually found herself increasingly confined to roles with cool, distant personas, like the nurse she portrayed in 'Code Blue.' Her personal life has also faced scrutiny; following her romantic relationship with actor Seiji Fukushi, which ended in 2016, Higa reflected, "I may remain single forever."
The pandemic undoubtedly tested her creativity and resolve. With Rising's music division faltering due to event cancellations, the agency faced economic challenges. It led to discontent among artists, particularly Higa, who felt stifled. "I want to take on new challenges, but I feel held back," she expressed, frustrated with the stagnant opportunities.
2022 marked a significant year for her as she released her photo collection 'True Heart,' showcasing daring bikini and underwear shoots. While Higa was often seen as demure, she asserted her desire to break out of her self-imposed shell, stating, "I want to shatter the image of gentility." This bold assertion signaled her readiness for change.
With growing aspirations, she began considering her independence from Rising. “She wanted to expand her repertoire and had been confiding with those around her about her desire to break free,” noted one acquaintance. Among those discussions was her interest in possibly joining 'Content Three,' the agency affiliated with popular actress Mio Imada.
Confirming her decision to part ways with Rising, representatives from the new agency stated, “Higa has been introduced to us through mutual acquaintances, and we have been discussing her future career. This is not exactly about pulling someone away; it’s about supporting their aspirations.”
Throughout this transition, Higa’s dedication to her craft has remained apparent. Director Mitsutaka Tanaka, who worked with her on the film 'Who Does Your Parent’s Money Belong To?' noted, “Higa’s determination is inspiring. During our time filming, she maintained her focus, jogging every morning without sunglasses, embodying both ease and depth.” Her commitment translates onto the screen as she portrays complex emotions adeptly, particularly as witnessed during her role on 'Forest.'
Higa’s recent social media posts reflect her vibrant personality, highlighting moments shared with friends and family. On February 10, she updated her Instagram with endearing photos featuring her “little friend” alongside an array of colorful culinary delights, captioning the post with warmth, “Having my ‘oshi’ at home has been the highlight. I’m immensely grateful for the energy I receive through love.” Her wide range of activities certainly demonstrates another layer of her ambitious creative vibe outside of acting.
Comments on social media from fans indicated appreciation for her cooking and captivating persona, declaring her gatherings nothing short of “adorable” and “perfectly curated.” With these interactions, she continues to build rapport with her followers.
Higa’s departure from Rising Production Holdings is more than just leaving an agency; it symbolizes her desire to redefine her identity within the entertainment industry. Aspiring artists often seek personal authenticity, and Higa’s public statements suggest she is on this transformative path. The agency shift may open new avenues for her career, allowing growth as she continues to engage with audiences across varied platforms.
Watch for the next steps Higa takes as she embraces her newfound freedom, aiming to expand her artistic horizon. Her departure leaves both fans and industry watchers curious about her future projects and direction.
Indeed, as she ventures beyond the walls of Rising, fans anticipate the artistically rich narratives and captivating performances Higa is set to deliver as she forges her own path.