KAT-TUN, the renowned Japanese pop group, has announced its disbandment after 24 years of captivating fans worldwide. The decision, disclosed on March 4, 2025, marks the end of the group's storied history, overcoming multiple challenges, including member departures and controversies.
The two remaining members, Yuichi Nakamaru and Tatsuya Ueda, have chosen to stay with the agency, pursuing their individual careers. Meanwhile, Koki Tanaka and Junnosuke Taguchi have opted for independence, leaving the former Johnny & Associates agency to chart their respective paths.
The group's breakup follows troubling times for Nakamaru, who gained media attention after marrying former Nippon TV announcer Risa Sasazaki on January 2024. Shortly after, Nakamaru found himself embroiled in controversy after reports surfaced detailing his rendezvous with a female university student, resulting in his temporary suspension from media activities. Despite announcing his return to showbiz in January 2025, Nakamaru has yet to return to terrestrial broadcasting.
During a press conference on February 2025, Hiroyuki Fukuda, President of Nippon TV, hinted at the possibility of Nakamaru's appearance on the show, fueling rumors of his potential comeback. “The possibility is not zero,” he stated, adding to the speculation surrounding Nakamaru's future.
At the same time, discussions surfaced during TV-Asahi's own February conference about Nakamaru possibly returning to the show 'Kaji Yarou!!!', where he had previously been a regular. The network expressed the desire to coordinate with Nakamaru’s management for timing on his comeback. Though this presents hope, reports indicate Nakamaru must return by April 2025, or it may be considered as tantamount to demotion.
Contrastingly, Sasazaki has maintained her television presence, participating actively on various programs and reportedly supporting their household financially. Notably, during her appearance on ABEMA's 'Chance no Jikan' in December 2024, she faced playful teasing about her husband from comedian Daigo Chidori, signaling support for Nakamaru’s eventual return to the industry.
With the possibility of Nakamaru's return on 'Kaji Yarou!!!' looming, sources suggest internal documents indicate his name alongside Bakarhythm and Kazlaser slated for primetime slots. The show primarily targets housewives, making Nakamaru's comeback at this stage even more significant.
Importantly, reports suggest viewers may require time to fully accept Nakamaru post-controversy. The show serves as a platform for him to demonstrate personal growth and regain public trust. If he successfully manages this transition, Nakamaru could establish himself anew within the entertainment sphere.
Despite the uncertainty following KAT-TUN's disbandment, Nakamaru's potential return to 'Kaji Yarou!!!' remains pivotal for his image recovery. If Nakamaru does not successfully re-establish himself this April, he risks fading from the spotlight entirely.
The equipment remains unconfirmed as of now, with TV-Asahi stating, “Nothing has been decided at this moment.” For Nakamaru, this June approved first round will determine his future, allowing him to reclaim his place on Japan’s television screens.