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| NMB48’s Anju Manabe to Graduate This Summer, Plans to Stay in the Entertainment Industry |
NMB48 Team M’s co-captain and Chouzetsu KawaE member, Manabe Anju, surprised fans today with her graduation announcement during the theatre show.
The idol, known for her steady presence and charming personality, revealed that she’s been thinking about this decision for months – and finally decided it’s time to take the next step.
Her graduation stage is set to happen sometime this summer, though exact dates and plans for her final activities are still to be announced.
While it’s not confirmed whether there’ll be a big graduation concert (usually only the more senior or super popular members get those), fans are already buzzing with hope.
Anju Manabe made it clear that she’s not retiring from the spotlight.
“I plan to stay in the entertainment world,” she said, giving her supporters a bit of relief.
No detailed future plans yet, but it sounds like she’s ready to explore new challenges beyond the 48 Group life.
She thanked fans from the bottom of her heart, expressing gratitude for the memories, love, and support she's received since she joined the group back in 2020 as a 7th generation Kenkyuusei.
“It’s a really hard decision,” she admitted. “But I want to give it my all until the very end.”
Anju’s journey with NMB48 started in September 2020. She got promoted in 2021, and by the start of 2022, she was transferred to Team M during the group’s shuffle.
While she never ranked in the Senbatsu elections, she carved out her place as a dependable member, even earning the co-captain title along the way.
Like many graduations in the 48 Group world, this one feels bittersweet – not exactly shocking, but still emotional.
Graduation is something fans have come to expect, whether members want to try something new, chase a different dream, or simply take a step back from idol life.
Now, all eyes are on what’s next for Manabe Anju.
Until then, she’ll still be around, especially since she’s taking part in all the activities tied to NMB48’s 31st single.
So fans still have time to support her and cheer her on before that final stage comes.