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| Former AKB48’s Kato Rena Marries Non-Celebrity Partner – “He Accepts Even My Stubborn Side” (Photo: Instagram) |
AKB48 fans, get ready to send your heartfelt “omedetou!” — because Kato Rena, better known to fans as Renacchi, has officially walked down the aisle.
The 28-year-old former idol and model announced on 8 August via Instagram that she has married a non-celebrity man she has been dating for quite some time.
In a handwritten statement titled simply “Announcement”, she shared the happy news and gave fans a little glimpse of her married life-to-be.
“He is an honest and kind-hearted person who accepts even my stubborn personality,” Renacchi wrote. “From here on, as husband and wife, we’ll support each other and work together to build a home full of smiles.”
She wrapped up her message with a polite request for continued warm support from fans — a familiar yet heartfelt tone that reminded many of her idol days.
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Renacchi joined AKB48 in 2010 as part of the group’s 10th generation. She officially became a full member in March 2012 and made her first senbatsu selection in May of the same year with Manatsu no Sounds good! Over nearly 12 years with the group, she became a fan favourite for her soft visuals and cool yet approachable personality.
Beyond her idol activities, Renacchi wasn’t afraid to take creative control — producing the fan-driven Renacchi Sousenkyo project in 2015, and later, in 2018, launching the Gekidan Renacchi theatre troupe with a stage production of Romeo & Juliet under the direction of Yukihiko Tsutsumi.
She graduated from AKB48’s Team A on 20 February 2022 and has since been working under Mama & Son Inc.
Following the announcement, several former AKB48 members dropped messages of congratulations on social media.
Fans also took to Twitter to reminisce about their favourite Renacchi moments, from handshake events to theatre performances. Many noted how fitting it was for someone known for her gentle yet determined nature to describe her husband as a man who accepts her as she is.
While Renacchi didn’t reveal further details about her husband, she painted a warm picture of married life ahead — one rooted in mutual respect, teamwork, and plenty of smiles.