Daisuke Odagiri, member of the popular idol group SUPER EIGHT, has officially announced his marriage on the 24th, making him the first current member of the group to do so. The announcement, shared via the group’s agency’s official website, included the heartwarming news of his partner, an unnamed general woman, expecting their first child.
At 39 years old, Odagiri expressed his gratitude to his fans and supporters, acknowledging their role in the group's success over the past two decades. "I have decided to get married, and we are expecting a small life," he stated. His heartfelt message highlighted the importance of fan support, stating, "Thanks to the support from fans and everyone involved, we have been able to survive over 20 years as a group. I am committed to continuing to earn your support and to being of help to younger groups as well. I ask for your continued warm guidance and encouragement.”
This announcement marks not only Odagiri's personal milestone but also serves as an event of note within the idol culture of Japan, where marriages are often met with mixed reactions from fan bases. Until now, the last marriage announcement from within the broader group occurred back in 2021 when former member Subaru Shibuya married.
Odagiri's career began when he joined the now-defunct Johnny's Entertainment agency back in 1997. The boy band, which made its debut under the name Kanjani Eight, would later be known as SUPER EIGHT following its name change last year. Odagiri, who primarily plays the drums within the band, has also made his mark as an actor, starring in popular dramas such as "Dr. DMAT" and featured films including "100 Times Crying" and "The Dream of Cheese by the Mouse". Beyond his group activities and acting, he is credited as the producer for junior group Naniwa Danshi.
Interestingly, Odagiri's father, Tadaji Okura, is well-known as the founder of the popular Japanese izakaya chain Torikizoku, which he successfully built up regionally. This aspect of Odagiri's background may add layers to his public persona as he navigates both familial and professional responsibilities.
Though Odagiri had earlier made headlines for his relationship with actress Alice Hirose, which ended last April, his focus now appears to be on starting his own family. This new chapter signifies not only personal change but also reflects the evolution of identity for the SUPER EIGHT group as it continues to thrive and adapt to new dynamics.
Fan reactions have been overwhelmingly supportive, with many taking to social media to express their joy at the news. This announcement has been seen as both joyful and significant, highlighting the changing nature of idol culture where traditional norms are gradually shifting to include personal happiness and familial responsibilities for artists. Odagiri's marriage and upcoming fatherhood are viewed as inspiring milestones, encouraging the adoption of more progressive viewpoints within fan circles.
SUPER EIGHT has also announced plans to continue its activities with renewed energy post-Odagiri’s announcement, emphasizing their commitment to engaging with fans and maintaining their relevance within the entertainment industry.
Overall, Odagiri's marriage news has opened up conversations around the expectations of idols and the balance between personal lives and public personas. Such events often lead to shifts in fan dynamics and the group’s overall identity going forward as they embrace the changes brought by their colleagues’ personal milestones.