Japanese Star Hirosue Ryoko Released Early After Assault Arrest, Mental Health Concerns Grow
On the evening of April 16, the Shizuoka Prefectural Police announced that Japanese actress Hirosue Ryoko had tested negative for all drugs, alcohol, and sedatives following her recent car accident and assault incident. This confirms that the former “national beauty” of Japanese showbiz was not under the influence of any substances when she crashed her car and attacked a medical staff member.
Initially detained from April 10 to 19, authorities decided to release Hirosue three days early after her test results ruled out substance abuse.
Public Apology and Distressed Appearance
At approximately 9 a.m. on April 16, Hirosue was officially released from Hamamatsu Nishi Police Station after completing the necessary legal procedures. Her first public appearance since the scandal drew a massive crowd of reporters from Japan’s leading news outlets.
As she exited the station, Hirosue deeply bowed for about three seconds as a gesture of apology. She appeared visibly frail, pale, and emotionally unstable after eight days in detention. Confronted by flashing cameras and shouting reporters, the actress showed signs of confusion, fear, and near tears. She did not respond to any questions, offered only a forced smile, and quickly left in a waiting car.
Speculations About Mental Illness Resurface
Her unstable expressions and body language have triggered widespread speculation about her mental health. Many believe she may be experiencing a mental breakdown or underlying psychological disorder that contributed to her erratic behavior.
Reports have resurfaced suggesting that Hirosue struggled with mental illness since her high school years. Years ago, she made headlines after being spotted crying uncontrollably on the street when a taxi driver allegedly forced her out for being unable to pay the fare. As a top-tier actress, she is believed to have kept her condition hidden for the sake of her public image.
Hirosue’s management agency has not issued any response to the growing speculation about her mental health.
Details of the Incident
According to NHK, the incident occurred at 6:50 p.m. on April 7, when Hirosue rear-ended a large trailer inside a highway tunnel in Shizuoka Prefecture. Her car sustained significant damage, causing major traffic congestion. Hirosue and her manager, who was in the car with her, both suffered minor injuries and were transported to different hospitals.
Hirosue Ryoko reportedly exhibited erratic and aggressive behavior following her April 8 car accident at around 12:20 a.m. At Shimada Hospital, she allegedly attacked a 37-year-old nurse without warning, prompting staff to call the police.
Witnesses also observed her acting strangely at a highway rest stop and showing signs of agitation at the crash site. Though she remained calm during police questioning, authorities noted that her mental state appeared unstable.
Negotiations and Possible Compensation
Hirosue’s team is reportedly negotiating a settlement with the nurse who sustained minor injuries in the hospital assault. No formal charges have been announced yet, and the case is still under review by authorities.
As the public continues to question the actress’s mental well-being, many await clarification from her agency or medical experts. For now, Hirosue Ryoko’s return to the public eye has only intensified the conversation about mental health in the entertainment industry.
