Actress Chizu Ikeya, known for her long-standing marriage to actor Hideo Nakae, recently reflected on her husband’s life and their shared experiences during an emotional appearance on TV Asahi's talk show "Tetsuko no Heya". Nakae, who passed away on May 16, 2024, at the age of 81 due to heart failure, left behind a legacy marked by his passion for acting and various hobbies including painting, haiku, baseball, and sumo wrestling.
Ikeya, now 70, shared her memories of Nakae, revealing that they often discussed end-of-life wishes together. She recalled, "He wanted no funeral, no life-prolonging treatment, and to spend his final days at home." This foresight proved essential as Ikeya faced the daunting task of managing their affairs alone after his death, especially given that they had no children.
During the show, Ikeya expressed the lingering feeling that Nakae might return home at any moment, saying, "Even now, I still feel like he’s about to come back." She reminisced about their time together, noting that they had spent many years in the public eye as a couple, yet there were also long stretches where they worked separately. Ikeya reflected on how this dynamic has shifted since Nakae's passing, stating, "When I think back, it feels like we were apart more often than not. Now, I feel like I've returned to a different kind of life."
In the initial months following Nakae's death, Ikeya admitted to struggling with her emotions, describing a time when she felt dangerously overwhelmed. She shared, "At first, I was so busy with everything that I didn’t have time to grieve. He had asked me to send him off cheerfully, and I felt that if I were sad, he would be upset with me." This sentiment became a source of motivation for her.
Nakae’s health had been a significant concern in the years leading up to his death. He had battled serious illnesses, including acute pneumonia and rhabdomyolysis in his mid-60s, where doctors gave him only a 20% chance of survival. Over the past decade, he also faced multiple cancer diagnoses but chose to keep his struggles private, often returning to work as if nothing had happened.
Ikeya recalled, "He was the kind of person who didn’t feel the need to disclose his medical conditions unless absolutely necessary. He preferred to handle everything quietly and return to his work without burdening anyone." This attitude extended to his final wishes, which included avoiding invasive treatments and instead focusing on comfort at home.
As Ikeya shared her reflections, she also opened up about her first impressions of Nakae when they met as co-stars. Initially, she had a different perception of him based on media portrayals, which she described as a "playboy image." However, upon getting to know him, she discovered a man with whom she shared deep interests, particularly in literature and wine. She noted, "Talking with him about books and drinks made me realize he was quite different from the rumors."
Despite the challenges of managing her grief and the practicalities of life alone, Ikeya expressed gratitude for the love and support she received from friends and the public. She mentioned that many people had checked in on her, concerned about her well-being after Nakae's passing. "It’s touching to know that so many people care," she said.
The couple was often referred to as an "adorable couple" by their fans, a testament to their strong bond over their 46 years of marriage. Ikeya’s recollections of their life together, including their shared passions and mutual respect, painted a picture of a couple deeply intertwined in both personal and professional realms.
As the anniversary of Nakae's death approaches, Ikeya continues to navigate her life without him, cherishing the memories they built together while also facing the reality of her new life. She emphasized the importance of remembering Nakae not just for his struggles but for the joy and creativity he brought into their lives and the lives of others.
In summary, Chizu Ikeya’s heartfelt reflections on her late husband Hideo Nakae provide a glimpse into their life together and the enduring impact of love, even in the face of loss. Her candidness about grief, love, and the challenges of moving forward resonates with many, reminding us of the complexities of life and the bonds we share.
