Ryota Yamasato, a well-known figure in Japanese entertainment, made an appearance on the Nippon TV show "The! World's Astonishing News" on April 22, 2025, where he opened up about his marriage to actress Yu Aoi. The couple's union, which had sparked significant public interest since their marriage announcement in 2019, was a focal point of the discussion.
During the show, Yamasato, 48, recounted how he never imagined he would end up in a relationship with Aoi, who is now 39. The host, Hotei Shofukutei, humorously remarked on the dynamics of their marriage, saying, "Even though you’re married, don’t think she belongs to you now!" This prompted Yamasato to respond with mock indignation, asking, "What do you mean? She’s my wife!"
Reflecting on their relationship's beginnings, Yamasato revealed that he was initially skeptical about dating Aoi. He stated, "At first, I didn’t think we would even get along, let alone date." His partner, Shizuyo Yamazaki, played a crucial role in introducing the two, having co-starred with Aoi in the film "Fly, Dagger." Yamasato explained, "My partner introduced us because they had become close during filming."
As the conversation progressed, Yamasato shared a surprising detail about Aoi's feelings toward him. He recounted that Aoi had told Yamazaki, "Yamasato is really funny and great," which elicited astonishment from his co-star Takashi Yoshimura, who exclaimed, "Wait, she said that about you?" Yamasato, beaming with pride, confirmed, "Yes, it was her who initiated it!" This revelation sparked laughter in the studio, with Yoshimura teasingly calling Yamasato "arrogant" for his confidence.
The couple began dating in April 2019, just months before announcing their marriage in June of the same year. Their relationship has flourished since then, with the couple welcoming their first child, a daughter, in August 2022. Yamasato's candidness about his relationship with Aoi not only entertained the audience but also revealed a more personal side of the comedian.
The episode also featured a segment on a South Korean actor who fell in love at first sight with a Japanese woman, highlighting the cultural connections and romantic tales that resonate with viewers. However, the focus remained on Yamasato's charming anecdotes about his wife, which captivated both the studio audience and viewers at home.
As the show wrapped up, Yamasato expressed his gratitude for the support he has received throughout his marriage and parenthood journey. His light-hearted yet sincere reflections on love and relationships resonated with fans, showcasing the warmth and authenticity that has made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
In a society where celebrity relationships often face scrutiny, Yamasato and Aoi's story serves as a reminder of the joys and surprises that love can bring. Their journey from unlikely acquaintances to a happy family exemplifies the unexpected paths that relationships can take.
Overall, Yamasato's appearance on "The! World's Astonishing News" not only entertained but also provided insight into the personal life of a public figure, making it a memorable episode for fans and viewers alike.
