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| Yumiki Nao Tears Up Live on Air After Backlash Over Nogizaka46’s 39th Single Line-Up (Yahoo JP) |
It was meant to be a celebratory moment — but for Nogizaka46’s Yumiki Nao, things got unexpectedly emotional during her appearance on FM FUJI’s Chinmoku no Friday (June 20), where she addressed the mixed reactions to her being selected once again as a senbatsu member for the group’s upcoming 39th single, Same numbers (out July 30).
Yumiki Nao, now 26, has secured 10 consecutive senbatsu appearances, a feat many idols would be thrilled to achieve. But during the live radio broadcast, she suddenly burst into tears as she spoke about the wave of harsh comments she's received online.
“There’s been a lot of different opinions this time… quite a few people saying, ‘Why is she in senbatsu?’” Yumiki said, clearly emotional, her voice cracking mid-sentence.
Her radio co-host, Arco & Peace's Sakai Kenta, gently acknowledged the downpour of supportive messages they had received on-air, including one that congratulated Yumiki on her streak and looked forward to the summer tour with her. But it was obvious that some of the negativity had left a mark.
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| Nogizaka46’s Yumiki Nao Cries on Live Radio After 39th Single Senbatsu Backlash |
From joy to doubt — and back again
Yumiki’s tears weren't just about her own struggles. Fans suspect the absence of her close friend Tamura Mayu — who did not make the senbatsu this time and will instead perform as part of the Under Members — might have hit Yumiki especially hard. Tamura had kept a 13-single streak going before this.
Sakai picked up on that too, commenting:
“Maybe it’s the feeling of ‘that girl who was always beside me…’ that’s making this tougher.”
Yumiki nodded and softly replied, “Honestly, yeah.”
Still, after taking a few moments to collect herself, she managed to smile through the mic and cheerfully declared:
“From here on, I’ll keep going with a smile!”
https://t.co/M3AHbjcZcc pic.twitter.com/xNgPhUhzCA
— Atlantis (@nazenaise) June 22, 2025
Netizen reactions
Online, the moment quickly trended among fans, with many rushing to support Yumiki:
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“Nao-chan worked so hard to get where she is. It’s okay to cry.”
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“She’s doing her best. I’m proud of her no matter what people say.”
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“This is why I love Yumiki. She’s real.”
Others, however, are still debating the group’s selection process, especially given the surprising senbatsu/under member shifts for this single.
📝 Quick Summary:
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Yumiki Nao cried on live radio while talking about backlash over her 10th senbatsu selection for Nogizaka46’s 39th single, Same numbers.
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She admitted fans have questioned her inclusion, but also received a lot of warm support.
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She spoke candidly about missing Tamura Mayu, her close friend, who didn’t make senbatsu this time.
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Yumiki wrapped up the broadcast with a smile, promising to move forward with energy.