Actor Mizuki Itagaki has tragically passed away at the age of 24, as confirmed by his family on April 17, 2025, via a post on his Instagram Stories. The announcement revealed that Itagaki died due to an "unexpected accident." His untimely death comes after a period of distress, as he had been missing since the end of January 2025 due to ongoing mental health issues.
The family’s statement expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, "We regret to inform you that actor Mizuki Itagaki has passed away due to an unexpected accident. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the fans who warmly supported Mizuki during his life, as well as to all the people involved with him." The post highlighted the challenges he faced, mentioning that he had been missing since January due to mental health struggles, with searches conducted in collaboration with the police and friends.
Itagaki's family explained the circumstances surrounding his disappearance, noting, "He had been missing since the end of January due to mental illness. We received notification from the police that his body was found in Tokyo." They also apologized for the delay in informing fans, saying, "We sincerely apologize for the delay in reporting this to the fans who have been worried about him. He always wanted to bring smiles and joy to everyone through his work in entertainment, but just as he was beginning to take positive steps toward resuming his career, his life has come to an abrupt end. We believe he must have felt great regret about this situation.
Born on October 25, 2000, in Tokyo, Mizuki Itagaki made his film debut in 2014 with "Gunjyo Ai ga Soko ni Atta Part 2." His career quickly gained momentum, and he became well-known for his role as the enigmatic Kazuki Kamihara in the critically acclaimed movie "Solomon's Perjury" in 2015. This performance earned him the Japan Film Critics Award for Best New Actor that same year.
In addition to his film work, Itagaki was a member of the popular boy band M!LK from November 2014 until January 2020. He also showcased his talent on television, appearing in NHK's Taiga dramas "Hana Moyu" in 2015 and "Kirin ga Kuru" in 2021, along with the morning drama "Éclair" in 2020.
However, Itagaki's life took a challenging turn around January 2024, when he began experiencing significant mental health issues. He was hospitalized and subsequently announced his departure from his agency, Stardust Promotion, in April 2024. Despite these challenges, he expressed his intention to continue working as an actor.
His family concluded their announcement with a heartfelt request, saying, "We hope you will fondly remember Mizuki Itagaki's past activities. We are deeply grateful for all the support and kindness you have shown him over the years." This tragic news has left fans and the entertainment industry mourning the loss of a talented young actor who had so much potential ahead of him.
As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues alike, many are reflecting on the impact of Itagaki's work and the bright future that was cut short. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who admired his talent and kindness. The entertainment community is coming together to honor his memory, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and the support needed for those struggling.
The sudden passing of Mizuki Itagaki serves as a stark reminder of the challenges many face behind the scenes and the critical need for open conversations about mental health. His family’s willingness to share his story highlights the importance of understanding and compassion in addressing such issues.
In light of this tragedy, fans are encouraged to remember Itagaki not just for his untimely death, but for the joy and inspiration he brought to many through his performances. As the community grieves, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of mental health support and the need for a compassionate approach to those who may be struggling.
As the news of Mizuki Itagaki's passing spreads, it is clear that he will be missed by many. His contributions to film and television, along with his vibrant spirit, will not be forgotten. In this moment of sorrow, the hope is that others will find the courage to seek help and that conversations around mental health continue to grow.
