On January 3, 2023, Akito Kiriyama of the popular boy band WEST. announced his marriage to former Japanese volleyball star Maiko Kano, making headlines as the first member of the group to tie the knot. The announcement came via STARTO ENTERTAINMENT's official website, where Kiriyama expressed his gratitude and aspirations for their future together.
"This time, I’m reporting to everyone who supports me, Akito Kiriyama is married to Maiko Kano. I appreciate this change and will strive to work sincerely together going forward," he stated, acknowledging both his supporters and the new chapter in his life.
Kano shared her happiness by posting on Instagram: "This time, I, Maiko Kano, am reporting my marriage to Akito Kiriyama. I am still inexperienced, but I hope to support each other and work hard together." This sentiment illustrated their commitment to each other and their respective careers.
The couple first crossed paths during the 2019 World Cup Volleyball, where Kiriyama was part of the group serving as special supporters, and Kano was involved as a commentator. Reports of their relationship began circulating, hinting at their romance sparking from their initial encounter.
Despite the heartfelt announcements from Kiriyama and Kano, reactions from fans and fellow WEST. members were mixed. Some fans felt abandoned, claiming they were not adequately considered during this major milestone. Comments such as, "Many fans have expressed disappointment and criticism toward the group members for their reactions to the marriage announcement," reflected the divisive fan sentiment.
Notably, members of WEST. shared their congratulations through social media. For example, Nozomu Kotaki posted on Instagram stories, celebrating Kiriyama’s marriage with enthusiasm, stating, "Congrats, Akito!" Heavy was the backlash aimed at him and Daisuke Shigeoka for continuing to celebrate publicly amid the outpouring of mixed feelings among fans.
Criticism ensued on social platforms, where fans argued, "Fans have been increasingly frustrated with the inconsiderate timing of members posting congratulations on social media." Many expressed feelings of neglect, feeling their emotional reactions to their idol's marriage were poorly respected by the group’s public showcases of joy.
Social media was ablaze with disappointment, as texts like, "After reading updates, I felt withdrawn," and, "Such tweets shouldn't be posted at all when fans are distressed," showcased overall sentiment among some members of their fanbase.
Yet, some members like Junta Nakama finessed their approach by refraining from posting anything significant and simply continuing their usual social media activity. This pivot drew considerable praise from fans who felt he was more attuned to their feelings. Comments included, "This kind of empathy feels nice," and "Thanks, Junta, for your sensitivity during this tough time for many fans." Nakama's low-key approach, along with staying sympathetic, maintained his standing in the fan community as they navigated these emotional waters.
Among the tensions, Kiriyama and Kano remain more united than ever. Their shared commitment to their careers alongside one another reflects their dedication to build and balance both personal and professional spheres. "Together, we'll continue to support each other, striving for greater heights," Kiriyama emphasized, anchoring on the couple's future.
Their love story, once hidden, has thrived under fans' scrutiny. After allegations of suspicion during prior interactions, including Kano’s ties to MLB star Shohei Ohtani, many fans were quick to judge them. Still, their recent marriage announcement sets the stage for their next chapter, which may help shift narratives surrounding them.
While the road hasn't been smooth, the engagement of Kiriyama and Kano resonates strongly against the backdrop of the entertainment world, emphasizing the duality of joy and disappointment intertwining fans' experience with celebrity relationships.
Overall, the marriage of Akito Kiriyama and Maiko Kano marks not just personal milestones but significant events within the fandom of WEST., highlighting the complicated dance between celebrity and public reaction.