After 34 years with the Japanese talent agency Matsushita Arts (松竹芸能), popular comedian and member of the duo "Yoiko," Hamaguchi Yu (濱口優) has announced his departure from the firm effective December 31, 2024. The news was shared by Hamaguchi on his Instagram account, expressing gratitude for his years at the agency.
Hamaguchi's announcement came as both surprising and bittersweet to fans, marking the end of an era for one of Japan's most beloved comedy pairs. Initially formed during their days as junior high school classmates, Hamaguchi and his partner, Ariyoshi Shinya (有野晋哉), launched their careers as Yoiko back in 1990. They became widely recognized characters on various popular TV programs, including "Urinary's" and "Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!" Their distinct blend of surreal humor and engaging personas helped to cement their place in the Japanese entertainment industry.
On December 28, during the late hours, Ariyoshi took to his blog to discuss Hamaguchi's departure, clarifying details surrounding their remaining partnership and his own status with Matsushita Arts.
“You all know Hamaguchi Yu is leaving Matsushita Arts. We belong to the era when we didn’t technically have contracts, so there’s no contract termination or renewal,” Ariyoshi wrote. He expressed hope for Hamaguchi as he embarks on his independent career, urging fans to support him during this transition.
This transition to freelance status does, of course, raise questions and uncertainties for the comedian. “It’s going to be a tough start for Free Comedian Hamaguchi Yu,” Ariyoshi noted, adding humorously, “Everyone, please help him out.” While Hamaguchi will no longer be under the agency’s banner, he reassured fans he would continue to work closely with Ariyoshi.
Hamaguchi's own confirmation of his departure came via Instagram, where he posted a heartfelt message alongside photos of the duo together. “I, Hamaguchi Yu, reporting to everyone: after 34 years, I will be leaving Matsushita Arts as of December 31, 2024. I thank everyone for their continued support. Yoiko is due to celebrate our 35th anniversary next year, and I hope to do many interesting things together,” he shared. He emphasized the importance of maintaining their friendship, promising fans they'd continue to work together.
The announcement was met with widespread support from fans online, with many expressing messages of encouragement and gratitude for the duo's long-standing contributions to Japanese comedy. “I’m cheering you on! I’ve been supporting you for 32 years and will continue to do so!” commented one follower.
Matsushita Arts also made the news official via their website, stating: “We formally announce Hamaguchi Yu's departure from our management effective December 31, 2024. This outcome follows discussions, leading to the peaceful termination of his exclusive management contract.”
They also confirmed Ariyoshi's status as remaining with the agency, reassuring fans the duo would still perform together as planned. “Ariyoshi will continue to work as our talent, and their activities together will remain unchanged,” the agency noted.
Details emerged about the discussions leading up to Hamaguchi's departure, indicating his desire to pursue independent opportunities, combined with his continuing affection for the duo. Despite the shift, there remains commitment toward their shared brand, Yoiko.
Recently, Hamaguchi has been increasingly seen alongside his wife, actress Minami Akina (南明奈), engaging more often on public occasions and events, showcasing his growth as both husband and performer. Earlier this month, he was honored with the title of Partner of the Year at the ‘Good Couple’ award event—a recognition underscoring his balance of work and personal life.
It has become apparent through his public interactions and posts, including at recent events, where he appeared with Matsushita Arts junior talent Hikorohii, emphasizing his commitment and staying connected with his roots.
The relationships within the comedy community have undoubtedly evolved, and the decision to leave came after considerable contemplation, balancing his ambitions with commitments to partnership and humor.
Although Hamaguchi Yu’s departure from the agency marks a significant change, the spirit of Yoiko will remain as Hamaguchi and Ariyoshi continue their work. The upcoming 35th anniversary promises excitement and potential as fans eagerly await what new paths these comedians will take after the transition.
