Sayako Aida Shares Humorous Idol Past On Fuji TV

On May 1, 2025, Sayako Aida, a former member of the popular Japanese idol duo Wink, shared a humorous and revealing story from her past during her appearance on Fuji TV's "Pokapoka." Aida, now 55, recounted an incident from her busy days as an idol when she and her partner, Sachiko Suzuki, impulsively left a live broadcast to visit a hot spring.

During the show, Aida, who was accompanied by her close friend and fellow entertainer Kazuko Iwashima, opened up about the pressures of fame and the occasional missteps that come with it. Reflecting on her time with Wink, Aida recalled a particularly hectic day while they were hosting a regular program on Fuji TV. "We were both exhausted, and at one point, we just blurted out, 'Let’s go to a hot spring!'" she said, laughing at the memory.

In a moment of spontaneity, Aida and Suzuki left the studio without informing anyone. They hopped into a taxi and headed straight to Ito Onsen for a much-needed break. Aida described how they felt liberated, albeit briefly, from their demanding schedules. "We just needed a moment to breathe," she explained, her voice tinged with nostalgia.

However, the reality of their decision hit Aida when she realized they had missed their live broadcast. After enjoying their time at the hot spring, she called her manager to apologize. "I told him, 'I’m so sorry! I’ll be back tomorrow!'" she recounted, emphasizing how mortified she felt at having left the show in such an unprofessional manner.

Upon returning to the office the next day, Aida and her manager went to Fuji TV to apologize. She described the experience as nerve-wracking but also filled with warmth, as her co-stars, including comedian Hiromi, offered her kind words and support. "They were really understanding, and I continued to appear on the show afterward," she said, relieved to have been forgiven.

This amusing anecdote resonated with the audience, and comedian Yuki Iwai couldn't help but make a joke about it, saying, "I can’t believe there was a cancellation before t.A.T.u.!" His quip brought laughter from the studio, highlighting the lighthearted atmosphere of the show.

In addition to discussing her past, Aida also touched on her friendship with Iwashima, whom she has known for nearly 30 years. The two have a candid relationship, with Iwashima often providing Aida with tough love. Aida recalled a previous appearance on the show where Iwashima had scolded her for a misleading headline that suggested she had "run away from home with a man." Aida clarified, "I was actually going to my parents' house, but the article misinterpreted it. It was quite alarming!"

Iwashima chimed in, saying, "That’s just Aida being her natural self; her talks can be a bit all over the place!" The affectionate banter between the two showcased their strong bond and mutual respect. Aida also shared that when she performs well, Iwashima celebrates by saying, "That was great! I opened a bottle of champagne!" This playful exchange highlighted the supportive nature of their friendship.

As the show continued, the pair reminisced about their early careers and the challenges they faced as young idols in the entertainment industry. Aida mentioned that despite the pressures, she cherishes the memories and friendships she has made throughout her career.

Amidst the laughter and stories, Aida's honesty about her past mistakes struck a chord with viewers. It served as a reminder that even those in the spotlight are human and can make impulsive decisions. Her willingness to share such a personal story added a layer of relatability to her public persona.

In the entertainment segment of the show, other topics were also discussed, including a humorous incident involving fellow entertainer PapaIya Suzuki and a recent complaint from talent Asari Suda about her husband. The diverse range of stories kept the audience engaged and entertained.

Aida's candidness and humor not only entertained viewers but also offered a glimpse into the life of a former idol navigating the complexities of fame, friendship, and personal growth. As she continues to appear on various shows and engage with her fans, Aida remains a beloved figure in the Japanese entertainment industry.

Reflecting on her journey, Aida expressed gratitude for the support she has received over the years. "I’m thankful for my friends and fans who have always been there for me, through thick and thin," she concluded, a smile lighting up her face.

As the episode wrapped up, viewers were left with a sense of nostalgia for the past while also feeling inspired by Aida's journey. Her ability to laugh at her mistakes and celebrate her friendships serves as a reminder that life is about embracing both the highs and lows.