Hirosue Ryoko Returns To TV After Scandal

On March 28, 2025, the Fuji TV program "The Common Tent!" aired a special segment featuring actress Hirosue Ryoko, marking her first national television appearance in two years. Hirosue, now 44, has gradually resumed her career following a tumultuous period that included a double affair scandal that forced her to take a break from the public eye.

During the episode, Hirosue engaged in candid discussions about parenting with her friends, revealing insights into her family life. "Since my eldest son went to study abroad early, I thought I had to talk to him properly as a parent about drugs and sex, although I shouldn't really talk about it on TV..." she shared, illuminating her approach to parenting. She emphasized the importance of guiding her children while acknowledging their maturity, saying, "As a parent, I think you shouldn't lead people astray or be kind to people. But my eldest son understands that, and I think I can live if I have my family and friends because I'm blessed with friends."

Hirosue's return to the screen comes after a challenging period in her personal life. In June 2023, "Weekly Bunshun" reported on her double affair with chef Shuma Teshima, which led to her departure from her agency and her divorce from Mr. Candle June, her husband at the time. They had married in 2010 and welcomed two children together—a son in 2011 and a daughter in 2015. However, the affair and subsequent divorce in 2023 marked a significant turning point in her life and career.

Despite the fallout from the scandal, Hirosue has been making a gradual comeback. She began appearing as a guest on YouTube programs in December 2023, with her remarks generating considerable buzz. Her participation in the show "Short Hope," which premiered on December 22, 2023, is set to span five episodes, concluding on January 11, 2025. In these episodes, she has explored her life and the pressures of fame.

In the first episode of "Short Hope," Hirosue showcased a rock-inspired fashion style, donning a red check skirt and a leather jacket. However, it was her reflections on her past that resonated deeply with viewers. In the second episode, she opened up about her feelings during the height of her fame, specifically recalling her decision to take a two-year hiatus starting in 2003. She explained, "I was suffering from the gap between the image the world had of Hirosue Ryoko and the fact that I could not live up to 100% of that image."

Hirosue admitted that during her peak popularity, she felt overwhelmed and lacked time for joy, stating, "I could not rest even at the peak of my popularity and was just tired from working hard and not having time to do fun things." This candidness highlights the burdens of celebrity life, particularly the constant pressure to maintain a public persona.

Reflecting on her journey, she confessed, "I thought my life was not just as an actress and wondered if I had run away at that time." This introspection reveals the complexities of her experience in the entertainment industry, where the expectations can often clash with personal desires and mental health.

In December 2024, Hirosue took another step in her comeback by holding a three-day solo live performance, signaling her renewed commitment to her career. However, the shadow of her past scandal looms large, and many in the industry speculate about the challenges she faces in rehabilitating her public image.

Her first television appearance post-scandal on "Non Stop!" aired on September 16, 2024. During this segment, she refrained from discussing the affair but expressed her determination to continue her acting career. Hirosue highlighted a "family conference" where she discussed her work with her children, indicating a desire to balance her professional and personal responsibilities.

As Hirosue Ryoko navigates her return to the spotlight, her story serves as a reminder of the complexities faced by public figures, particularly women, who often bear the brunt of scrutiny and judgment. While she has made strides toward reclaiming her narrative, the journey ahead remains fraught with challenges, as she works to redefine her image in the eyes of the public.

In conclusion, Hirosue's return to television not only marks a personal milestone but also reflects broader themes of redemption and resilience in the face of adversity. As she continues to share her story, audiences are left to ponder the realities of fame and the personal sacrifices that often accompany it.