Nicole Fujita, the beloved model and television personality, announced her upcoming graduation from the popular Nippon TV show, Hirunandesu!, during the March 17, 2025 broadcast. After serving as a Monday regular since April 2017, this marks the end of her incredible eight-year tenure on the show, where she started her career at just 19 years old.
On the show, Fujita addressed fans, saying, "I have something to tell you all. I will graduate from Hirunandesu!" This poignant announcement was met with appreciation as the program showcased highlights from her time on air. Her co-star, actor Tomio Umezawa, couldn't help but joke about her departure, stating, "I want to leave as well! It’s like I’m only here because of you," which provided some light-hearted moments even as the reality of her exit loomed.
Reflecting on her time on the show, Fujita fondly recollected, "I experienced my Coming of Age ceremony here too," and shared how Hirunandesu! allowed her to pursue her passions. "I’m 27 now. I experienced my Coming of Age ceremony here too," she reminisced with warmth. Her tenure on the show has been marked by personal milestones, including moments of joy and celebration alongside her fellow cast members.
Fujita expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with various segments, mentioning, "I wanted to drive and have my own segments like Fashion Corner. It was amazing how the show helped me realize my ambitions." She also highlighted the segments celebrating her marriage when her colleague, Nozomi Murakata, performed on stage to celebrate her happiness, stating, "That was truly special. The way everyone gathered to congratulate me was heartwarming."
Although her announcement was filled with mixed emotions, Fujita admitted, "I feel it’s normal to come here every week, so I don’t really have the sense of graduating yet." The feeling of leaving something familiar is challenging, but it's also part and parcel of moving on to new beginnings.
The show's enthusiastic lead, the humor-filled duo of Ucchan Nanchan, has been supportive throughout her run. South Ucchan remarked, "We’ll celebrate your new beginnings. I feel sad about you leaving, but it’s also exciting to see what you will do next!" Anton from the production team expressed sentiments of loss, sharing, "Your energy is contagious; you will be missed on set!"
Fujita encouraged fans to look forward to her last episode airing March 24, stating, "Next week, I'll share special memories from my roots. I hope everyone enjoys it, and I’ll be visiting Harajuku to showcase spots I still love as an adult!"
It’s not just an exit; it’s also the start of something new for her. This unique send-off will allow Fujita to share her growth and experiences over the years. Today marks the dawn of new adventures, and her fans can only watch with excitement and curiosity for what lies ahead.
Nicole Fujita’s departure from Hirunandesu! serves as a beautiful reminder of the impact of longevity on television: leaving to embrace new paths, but forever cherishing the moments spent on set. Bridging with her heartwarming memories, her charm will be missed, and we wish her the best as she leaves this chapter behind.