Haru, the talented actress who has been part of Horipro Talent Agency for 19 years, recently announced her departure from the firm, coinciding with significant changes at the agency. Through her Instagram account, she expressed gratitude for her lengthy affiliation, stating, 'I have decided to leave Horipro, where I have been cared for over the past 19 years, effective December 31, 2024.'
Haru's announcement came shortly after Horipro revealed its merger with Horipro Booking Agency, set to take effect on April 1, 2025. The merger aims to strengthen the agency's overall capabilities and improve management efficiency. With the merger, the name Horipro Talent Agency, which has been established since 1977, will come to an end. The long-serving president, Joji Onoda, will also step down from his role, marking the closure of this chapter for the agency.
Reflecting on her time with Horipro, Haru stated, 'Given the recent announcement about the merger and the retirement of President Onoda, I felt it was time to take a new step forward.' She plans to continue her career with two managers she has worked closely with for 18 years and 2 years, respectively, embracing future projects diligently.
Actor Osamu Mukai also made headlines with his own announcement, declaring his independence from Horipro, which he referred to as the agency's 'closure' via Horipro's official Instagram. 'This is Osamu Mukai. I will be stepping away from Horipro following its end as I move forward independently,' he shared, reflecting on the agency's evolution.
The agency's broader announcement communicated, 'We are merging with Horipro Booking Agency to bolster our collective strength and improve operational efficiency.' With the merger, the agency aims to streamline its processes and adapt to the changing entertainment industry, ensuring its talents can thrive.
Haru expressed her hope for continued support from her fans and those who have aided her career throughout the years. 'I sincerely ask for your continued support and love,' she wrote, emphasizing her appreciation for the relationships cultivated during her tenure.
Other prominent figures, including Mizuki Tanimura and Satomi Terukawa, alongside Mukai, have also utilized this transitional period to announce their future paths. Mukai has confirmed plans to establish his own agency post-merger, marking significant changes within the ranks of Horipro.
The agency has been home to popular actors since its inception, and this restructuring is pivotal for its future direction. With the commitments from established members like Haru and Mukai to continue their careers independently, the industry is poised for shifts as these talents navigate their new journeys.
While the merger symbolizes the end of Horipro Talent Agency, it opens avenues for individual growth among its talents. Following the announcements, fans and industry observers eagerly anticipate the next steps for both Haru and Mukai as they carve their own paths forward.
