Ichikawa Yuki, the renowned enka singer, made her triumphant return to the stage on March 4, 2025, during NHK's 'Uta Kon' after overcoming a challenging battle with ovarian cancer. The 49-year-old singer had been on hiatus since June 2024 due to treatment for the disease, which had initially been found suspicious during examinations.
Last summer, Ichikawa underwent extensive tests leading to her diagnosis. Following her June examination, she faced the heartrending reality of having been suspected of having ovarian tumors, prompting her to take time off to focus on her health. On July 2024, she underwent six hours of surgery to remove her ovaries and uterus, with doctors confirming the tumor as stage 1 cancer.
After several months of chemotherapy, Ichikawa announced the end of her anti-cancer drug treatment and marked her return to the public eye by making joyful announcements on social media. By December 2024, she was celebrating the conclusion of her treatment and prepared to step back onto the stage.
During the March 4 performance, Ichikawa showcased her powerful voice singing 'Jinsei Ichiro,' originally performed by the late Misora Hibari, which she noted had become emotionally significant to her. "Now, because I have overcome this great trial, I think there is a song I can deliver to everyone. I will sing with the determination, 'This is the path I will live on,'" she expressed passionately during her performance.
With unrestrained emotion, Ichikawa wiped away tears after her song, thanking her audience. "Thank you all. I look forward to your support moving forward," she said, drawing appreciation and applause from fans moved by her heartfelt return. It was clear from her performance how deeply the ordeal had shaped her artistry and commitment to music.
The program also featured her notable collaboration with the singer Yuki Saori, who Ichikawa referred to as her benefactor. "Yuki-senpai is my benefactor who helped me overcome my illness. When I told her about my health issues, she immediately told me to get tested and introduced me to doctors, which led to my treatment," Ichikawa explained. Her gratitude extended beyond words as she added, "You gently pushed me, and sometimes harshly encouraged me, through my moments of despair. Thank you very much."
Looking forward, Ichikawa Yuki is set to perform again on May 19, 2025, at the Sun City Koshigaya City Hall, located in her hometown of Saitama Prefecture. With renewed passion, she is also scheduled to release her new song titled 'Oboro' just the day after her concert, on May 20, 2025.
This moment marks not just the return of Ichikawa Yuki to the world of enka music, but also symbolizes resilience and determination against life’s adversities. Her fans eagerly await the exciting developments to come as she embarks on this new chapter filled with hope, song, and courage.