Actress Pin-ko Izumi shared candid stories about her colleagues in the entertainment industry during a press conference on June 4 [3].
Izumi's reflections provide a rare glimpse into the personal dynamics of Japan's most influential idol groups and the realities of long-term fame. Her comments come as she releases a new book titled "Pin! to Shite Iku no mo Ii Janai: Pin-ko 78-sai, Saigo ni Nokoshitai Kotoba."
During the event, the 78-year-old entertainer [1] said she had interactions with members of SMAP and Arashi. Regarding Arashi, she mentioned searching for a photograph she believed she had with five members of the group, though she said she could no longer find where she had placed it.
Izumi also offered blunt advice regarding the nature of the entertainment business. "There are plenty of bad people. Entertainers, be careful," Izumi said.
When the topic of her estate arose, she clarified that she does not have an inheritance to leave behind. However, she noted that she intends to give her jewelry to actress Keiko Kitagawa, Izumi said.
These remarks follow the recent conclusion of Arashi's activities, which officially ended on May 31, 2026 [2]. Izumi used the platform to promote her writing and convey the depth of her professional relationships to her fans.
“"There are plenty of bad people. Entertainers, be careful."”
Izumi's public commentary highlights a transition toward more transparent, personal storytelling from veteran Japanese entertainers. By blending humor with warnings about the industry and mentioning the end of Arashi's active period, she positions her new book as a legacy project intended to provide both mentorship and historical context for the next generation of performers.
