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Arts & Culture
26 February 2025

Muro Tsuyoshi Reunites With Mother After 40-Year Absence

The Japanese actor shares his emotional experience of meeting his estranged mother and reflects on family ties.

Muro Tsuyoshi, the popular Japanese actor, has shared his deeply emotional reunion with his mother, which took place after a staggering 40 years of separation. During his recent appearance on the television show "Tetsuko's Room," Muro opened up about how his childhood experiences shaped his complex feelings toward family.

Muro, who became known for his roles and charm, revealed how he had been separated from his mother at just four years old when his parents divorced. He was raised by his aunt and uncle following this drastic familial change, which left lasting impacts on his life. "I was taken care of by my aunt's family, including my grandparents, and still feel a strong connection with them," he stated, highlighting the comfort and stability they provided him during his upbringing.

According to Muro, the reunion with his mother came about when she reached out after hearing him discuss his life on various television programs, including "Tetsuko's Room" and shows hosted by renowned talent Akashiya Sanma. She expressed her desire to meet with him through letters, prompting this long-awaited meeting. "She said, 'I am your mother. Would you like to meet?" he recounted, noting the gravity of her invitation.

When the moment finally arrived more than six years ago, Muro admitted to feeling both nervous and relieved. To his surprise, the emotional meeting was not filled with tears or dramatic expressions of hurt. Instead, it was marked by gratitude. "I told her, ‘Thank you for giving birth to me,’ which was something I had wanted to say for many years," he reflected, encapsulating the mix of emotions he felt during their time together.

Despite the years apart, Muro conveyed no bitterness or resentment about their past. "I had no bad feelings about the separation," he said, demonstrating maturity and acceptance of his life circumstances. He mentioned how his mother apologized for the prolonged absence—"I’m sorry for being away since I was four years old,”—but Muro quickly reassured her, saying, “Please don’t apologize. I feel my life has been good, and I made my own choices without regret."

The reunion was also discussed from the perspective of Muro's aunt, his primary caregiver throughout his youth. Muro revealed he was hesitant to tell her about meeting his mother initially. "For about three years, I didn’t mention it to her," he shared, illustrating the delicate balance he navigated between his two families. When he eventually confided this information to his aunt, she responded positively, saying, "Oh, I’m glad to hear it." Her supportive reaction underlined the strength of their bond.

While Muro expressed gratitude for this reunion, he decided against pursuing direct contact with his mother after their meeting. He explained, "I didn’t exchange contact details because I want to honor my aunt's family, who raised me and supported my dreams." This intentional decision highlights Muro's loyalty to his aunt and the family unit he currently holds dear.

The reunion seemed to bring more than just acknowledgment of the past. Muro spoke of it as something enriching to his life, not overtly painful or complicated. "It felt good to simply know she is well," he remarked, showing how the reunion allowed him to affirm the connection without requiring more than what was necessary.

Reflecting on his childhood, Muro cherished the memories shared with both his mother and his aunt. "I don’t look back with sorrow. My childhood had its ups and downs, but it also made me who I am today," he concluded. Muro Tsuyoshi's story is one of growth, resilience, and the enduring significance of familial bonds, highlighting how connecting with one’s roots—even after such time—can be both healing and heartwarming.