Former AKB48 Top Idol Watanabe Mayu Spotted After 5-Year Disappearance, Allegedly Living with Musical Star
Watanabe Mayu, born in 1994, entered the entertainment industry at just 12 years old. She was one of the most prominent members of Japan’s national girl group AKB48, part of Kami 7—the top 7 most recognizable and influential members who helped cement the group’s then-unshakable dominance. One of AKB48’s signature features is its annual popularity general election. Mayu consistently ranked among the top, and even took 1st place in 2014, making her the hottest female idol in Japan that year.
As tradition goes, Mayu announced her graduation from the group in 2017, like many of her fellow members. She continued working for another three years before officially retiring from the industry after a 14-year career. However, what shocked fans even more than the retirement itself was her complete disappearance for five years, leaving no trace. No one knew where she was or what she was doing—not even the paparazzi could track her down.
Recently, however, paparazzi are said to have spotted Mayu exiting an apartment, dressed head-to-toe in black with blonde hair—something she had never done while still in the public spotlight. Interestingly, reporters had been staking out this area for some time, claiming that the apartment she was seen leaving belongs to anime musical actor Ota Motohiro. This has led to strong speculation that Mayu and Motohiro are quietly dating and living together.
Though reporters have been monitoring Ota’s activities, there have been no sightings of the two stepping out together, likely due to extreme caution in order to avoid hurting fans’ feelings.
According to a journalist’s description, Motohiro’s girlfriend—referred to as “A” (in her 30s)—was once a famous idol known for her strong work ethic and the deep trust she earned from fans. Her large, sparkling eyes peeking out from behind blonde hair still carry the brilliance of her glory days. Despite her fame, after retirement she completely withdrew from the public eye and has led a very private life. She does not use any official social media accounts, so very few people are aware of her current circumstances.
To this day, neither Ota nor A have ever been featured in dating rumors. The same journalist added, “Even when she was active as an idol, A was almost never caught up in dating gossip. In the entertainment reporting world, she was known for her squeaky-clean image.”
Possibly out of respect for her dedication to the job and desire to live a normal life, the paparazzi blurred her face and chose anonymity. However, fans of AKB48 and particularly Mayu quickly recognized her distinctive ears, which gave her identity away.
After so many years of complete silence, fans now feel relieved and happy to see that Mayu has finally found peace, after spending so many years confined to the idealized image of an idol. After 14 years of selling an image, Mayu truly deserves a private life—one where she can live as a normal person, free from scandal and public scrutiny.
During AKB48’s heyday, many members were exposed for dating, something that’s considered a taboo in the group and within Japanese idol culture in general. The group promotes the concept of being “an idol you can meet”—like the girl next door. Revealing a personal relationship can shatter the fantasy between idol and fan, making fans feel betrayed and seriously damaging the group’s reputation. Mayu, however, was never involved in any dating rumors, always maintained a spotless, scandal-free image, and was known for her professional dedication.
