Tokyo, Japan - Celebrations are underway as the popular Japanese literary magazine, 週刊文春WOMAN, marks its sixth anniversary with the release of its special edition on December 23, 2024. The magazine's cover features artwork by the acclaimed artist and actor, 香取慎吾, who reflects on aging and personal growth. With its focus on 'the correct approach to aging,' this anniversary issue promises to be both insightful and engaging.
香取's cover art, titled 'aging dance,' aims to encourage readers to embrace their age. The artist, who has seen his own career evolve significantly since leaving the Johnny’s talent agency, lends his creativity to the magazine with this powerful statement. "It's alright to age; we are all beautiful at every stage of life," he states, emphasizing the positivity surrounding aging.
Range and depth characterize this special issue. The highlight is not only the cover art but also the lead article featuring 狭山ひろ子, who provides readers with her personal reflections after stepping away from the limelight. Writer 阿川佐和子 conducts the exclusive interview, delving deep with 狭山, whose acting prowess defined dramas from the Showa and Heisei eras. Her shift to private life and her experiences after her husband, 伊集院静, passed away shed light on the emotional undercurrents of their 31-year marriage.
伊集院's character and his controversial past—often referred to as a 'womanizer'—are tackled with complexity as 狭山 revisits sweet memories and troubled chapters of their life together. With forthcoming stories reflecting on marriage and shared life, the emotional depth is palpable. The 19-page special feature narrates intimate moments, including discoveries made posthumously, presenting 伊集院's softer side.
Another significant part of the issue reflects on contemporary societal views on aging, with expert commentary from notable figures and scholars. This multifaceted approach to aging discusses perspectives on personal identity, societal norms, and the importance of redefining how society views this natural process.
This anniversary edition also marks 香取's return to the entertainment scene and highlights his latest endeavors, including collaborations and upcoming projects. His new album, Circus Funk, is ready for release, indicating this could be his most significant comeback yet.
Published by 文藝春秋, 週刊文春WOMAN has reached readers nationwide, creating conversations about life's transitions and encouraging open dialogue about topics often considered taboo. With this issue, the magazine aims to penetrate the heart of readers, inspiring them to be more accepting and thoughtful about the realities of life.
“This edition is not just about celebration; it's about fostering connections through shared experiences,” invites the editor-in-chief, highlighting the commitment to deliver powerful narratives to the audience.
With the blend of art, narrative, and insightful commentary, the 2025 6th-anniversary issue of 週刊文春WOMAN stands as a testimony to the changing tides of society, urging everyone to embrace both aging and the wisdom it brings.
With its price set at 748 yen (including tax), this limited-edition issue is expected to fly off the shelves.
