Kikuchi Fuma, a member of the popular group timelesz, opened up about his experiences and challenges during the recent auditions for the "timelesz project," known as Type-Pro, on the April 24 episode of TBS's "Iwai, Arigi THE Night Society." The 30-year-old artist spoke candidly about the emotional toll of public scrutiny and the mixed feedback he received from fans during the audition process.
During the show, Kikuchi engaged in a lively discussion with the vocalist of the rock band Mrs. GREEN APPLE, Motoki Omori, as they explored the streets of Kagurazaka in Tokyo. When asked by actress Riko Fukumoto if he often searches for his name online, Kikuchi admitted, "I particularly did during the auditions," revealing that he frequently engaged in ego-searching to gauge public opinion.
He described the experience as bittersweet, noting that as he delved deeper into the fan community, he encountered a significant amount of negative feedback regarding the auditions. "For the fans, the more core they become, the more negative opinions there were about doing the auditions," Kikuchi explained, highlighting the emotional distress these criticisms caused him.
Despite the challenges, Kikuchi found moments of joy in the process. He shared that after the distribution of Type-Pro, he actively monitored fan reactions through social media. "I was happy when the charm of not just the current members but also the candidates was conveyed. It was delightful to see comments like, 'I didn't know they had this side,'" he reflected.
In addition to discussing his audition experiences, Kikuchi also reminisced about a recent shoot in Hawaii with his fellow timelesz members. He fondly recalled how they gathered in their room afterward to play card games, creating a sense of camaraderie and fun amid their busy schedules.
On April 23, 2025, Kikuchi took to Instagram to share a heartfelt gift he received from his four-year-old daughter. The gift included a handwritten letter adorned with stickers and illustrations, expressing her affection for him with the words, "Fuma-kun daisuki da yo" ("I love you, Fuma-kun"). Kikuchi expressed his gratitude and admiration for his daughter's creativity, noting the serendipitous connection between the octopus she drew, the number of its legs, and the fact that timelesz consists of eight members.
"This kind of thing is what makes me the happiest. Even now, I feel like crying when I read it again," he said, emphasizing the emotional impact of the letter. The post garnered a wave of positive responses from fans, with many praising the touching gesture and commenting on Kikuchi's potential as a caring father.
Fans expressed their admiration, saying things like, "What a wonderful fan letter!" and "He seems like he would make a great dad." This sentiment reflects Kikuchi's ability to connect with his audience, not just through his music but also through his personal life.
Kikuchi's recent activities have kept fans engaged and excited. He frequently shares memories from his fan club events, including the "Ofukai Vol.2" held on April 16, 2025, where he described the atmosphere as "so moving that I could cry." His solo shots from the event received enthusiastic feedback, with fans commenting on his good looks and charm.
As timelesz continues to grow in popularity, Kikuchi's openness about his struggles and triumphs resonates deeply with fans. His ability to share personal experiences while navigating the challenges of fame has endeared him to many, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Overall, Kikuchi's journey through the audition process and his heartfelt interactions with fans showcase the complexities of being a public figure in today's digital age. As he balances his career and personal life, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for him and the timelesz group.
