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| Hirosue Ryoko Opens Up About Health Battle: Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and Hyperthyroidism, Steps Away from Spotlight |
Japanese actress Hirosue Ryoko (44) has broken her silence and shared a deeply personal update on her official website.
In a heartfelt message to her fans and the industry, she revealed that she’s been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and hyperthyroidism, and will be stepping away from all entertainment activities for the foreseeable future.
According to the announcement posted on 2 May, Ryoko has been receiving medical treatment under the close care of professionals and is now focusing entirely on healing—both body and mind.
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| Hirosue Ryoko Steps Back from Spotlight Due to Mental and Physical Health Issues (Official) |
“I’m truly sorry for the worry and trouble I’ve caused,” the statement begins, expressing gratitude for the continued support from fans and those involved in her career. “Since being released from detainment on 16 April, I’ve been hospitalised at a Tokyo medical facility where I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and hyperthyroidism. Treatment is ongoing under strict medical supervision.”
The actress, known for her versatile roles and long-standing presence in the Japanese entertainment scene, was arrested earlier in April after an alleged incident at a hospital in Shizuoka, where she was accused of assaulting a nurse.
Following a police investigation and detainment, she was released on 16 April.
The management office, R.H, made it clear that alcohol or illegal drugs were not involved, and no substances were found during a house search.
Ryoko’s team took the opportunity to clarify that there is no attempt to excuse her actions due to her health condition, and they will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities.
Still, they admitted they had, in hindsight, brushed off her ongoing struggles too lightly, chalking them up to general “poor health”.
“Not just Ryoko herself, but we as those around her are now reflecting on how we overlooked her pain. We deeply regret having dismissed her condition as mere physical unwellness,” the statement read.
As part of her recovery plan, Hirosue Ryoko will now be focusing on outpatient treatment and home care.
There is no timeline for her return, and for now, all work-related activities are on pause.
The agency also issued a plea to the public and media, asking for space and understanding:
“Please refrain from intrusive coverage, speculation, or unfounded rumours regarding her condition. The names of the diagnoses carry weight, and we ask for calm, respectful understanding.”
Despite the heaviness of the situation, fans have already begun pouring in messages of support online, showing that Ryoko isn’t facing this battle alone.
She may be stepping away from the spotlight for now, but many are already looking forward to the day she shines again—on her own terms, and in full health.