The Japanese music industry was left reeling after a bombshell revelation from former idol Inoue Rikako, who announced her transition into the adult film industry—a move that stunned fans and media alike.
In May 2022, Rikako made her long-awaited return to entertainment after a long absence. However, instead of resuming her image as a pure and polished idol, she caused an uproar by embedding a bold message at the end of her new music video: “I will become an AV actress.” The shocking declaration instantly set social media ablaze and ignited a whirlwind of controversy.
Although Japan has seen other idols pivot to adult entertainment, Rikako’s case stood out due to her polished background. Trained and selected under strict standards, she was a core member of Fairies, a J-pop girl group that gained critical acclaim. Formed in 2011, Fairies won the prestigious “Best New Artist” award at the 53rd Japan Record Awards—an achievement that positioned them as one of the most promising girl groups of their era.
Born on May 29, 1996, in Nagasaki, Rikako spent nearly a decade performing on major stages. Aside from music, she also explored musical theater, showcasing her versatility as a performer. But after Fairies disbanded in 2020, Rikako terminated her contract and took a two-year break from the industry.
Her unexpected return in 2022, now under the stage name Kominato Yotsuha, marked a dramatic shift. Launching her AV debut in June that year, she quickly climbed to the top of the FANZA rental rankings, proving her massive commercial appeal in her new field. Rikako addressed the public reaction by candidly stating that the career switch was a personal decision driven by genuine interest and curiosity. Her honest explanation helped soften public judgment and shift the narrative.
What makes her journey even more unique is that she didn’t abandon her roots in music. Kominato Yotsuha signed with T-Powers and continues to release singles while actively participating in adult film productions. She also runs a personal YouTube channel where she shares lifestyle content and entertainment updates, maintaining a connection with fans from both worlds.
Rikako’s bold move from J-pop sweetheart to AV actress remains one of the most talked-about career transformations in Japan’s entertainment history. Her dual path as both a singer and adult film actress has not only shocked the industry but also challenged long-standing perceptions about career choices in showbiz.
Sources: kenh14