On May 6, 2025, AKB48's Yuiri Murayama, affectionately known as "Yuirii," held her graduation concert at the Tokyo Garden Theater in Koto Ward, Tokyo. This highly anticipated event marked the culmination of her 14-year journey with the iconic idol group, during which she achieved a remarkable 1,339 theater performances, a record that earned her the title of "Theater Goddess." The concert was a celebration of her career, showcasing her talents and the deep connections she forged with fans and fellow members.
The graduation concert consisted of two performances: the daytime show titled "Things the Theater Taught Me" and the nighttime event, "When the Apple Flowers Bloom." The daytime performance featured over 40 songs, primarily from theater shows, including pieces from sister groups. The nighttime show, which lasted approximately three hours, included a carefully curated setlist of 37 songs. Murayama's emotional journey was palpable, as she expressed both joy and sadness at the prospect of leaving the stage she had called home for so long.
Before the performance, Murayama was visibly emotional, shedding tears as she reflected on her time with AKB48. However, she quickly turned her tears of sadness into tears of joy, stating, "It's so much fun I can't think. It's so much fun it'll be over in a flash." Dressed in a striking red and white dress for the encore, she radiated happiness as she performed her signature songs, including "Theater Goddess" and "Yuirii." Her self-devised setlist allowed her to showcase her growth as an artist and her love for the theater.
Adding to the excitement of the evening, 18 surprise guests joined Murayama on stage, including notable figures like Yuki Kashiwagi and Yui Yokoyama. Among the special appearances was Minami Minegishi, who performed for the first time since giving birth to her first child in July 2024. Minegishi congratulated Murayama, saying, "Congratulations on your graduation!" This heartfelt moment underscored the strong bonds formed within AKB48.
During the concert, Murayama announced her plans to continue her career as a solo singer and actress after graduation. She revealed that she would take on the lead role in the stage play "New Bakumatsu Junjo-den" set for August 2025. She expressed her desire to explore new opportunities and encouraged her fans to continue supporting her, stating, "I want to see various sceneries, so I would be happy if you could support the slightly clumsy Yuirii from now on."
Reflecting on her 14 years with AKB48, Murayama shared her gratitude for the experiences that shaped her. "At first, I just wanted to stand on the theater stage. But when I realized it, I liked the theater that everyone created," she said. Her love for the theater was evident as she encouraged the younger members to cherish their time on stage, emphasizing the importance of live performances and the community built around them.
The concert was not just a farewell but a celebration of Murayama's journey and growth. In her closing remarks, she thanked her fans, saying, "Thank you very much for supporting me, cheering me on, and finding me for 14 years." Her heartfelt words resonated with the audience, who responded with cheers and applause, creating an atmosphere filled with warmth and appreciation.
As she took her final bow, Murayama left the stage with a bright smile and a wave, embodying the spirit of an idol who has dedicated her life to her fans and the theater. Her journey with AKB48 may have come to an end, but her legacy as the "Theater Goddess" will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of idols.
Yuiri Murayama, born on June 15, 1997, in Kanagawa Prefecture, joined AKB48 as a 13th generation member in 2011. She quickly became a beloved figure within the group, known for her dedication and passion for performance. In 2020, she reached a significant milestone by achieving 1,000 theater performances, a testament to her commitment and hard work.
Murayama's story is a remarkable example of how dedication and love for one's craft can lead to a fulfilling career. As she embarks on this new chapter in her life, fans and fellow idols alike will be eagerly watching her next steps, ready to support her as she continues to shine in the entertainment industry.
