 |
| End of an Era: Rio Kitagawa Bows Out of Morning Musume ’25 After Months of Silence |
After months of silence and speculation, it’s now official— Kitagawa Rio will graduate from Morning Musume ’25 and Hello! Project by the end of 2025.
The news was confirmed by UP-FRONT PROMOTION through an official statement released on October 20.
The 21-year-old, who joined the legendary idol group back in 2019 as part of the 15th generation, had been on hiatus since April following what was described as “a violation of Hello! Project rules.”
While details were never fully disclosed, her absence had been one of the most talked-about topics among Hello! Project fans this year.
ICYMI: Kitagawa Rio Scandal Exposed.
A Mutual Decision After Reflection
In their announcement, UP-FRONT PROMOTION stated that the decision came after thorough discussions with Kitagawa herself, considering both her future and that of Morning Musume as a group.
The statement noted that “she has been reflecting deeply on her actions during her time away and wishes to move forward on a new path without causing further trouble to those around her.”
Kitagawa’s graduation will not be tied to the group’s “Movin' Forward with Hope” Fall Concert Tour, which also doubles as the graduation event for fellow members Akane Haga and Reina Yokoyama on December 5.
However, she will take part in special activities related to Morning Musume’s upcoming single, set for release on December 3, including individual events where she can directly express her gratitude to fans.
Rio Kitagawa’s Heartfelt Message to Fans
In her personal message, Kitagawa Rio expressed both regret and gratitude.
“I would first like to sincerely apologise for the worry and disappointment I’ve caused everyone. During my hiatus, I reflected many times on my careless past actions and thought deeply about whether I should continue. However, considering the burden it might place on the members and staff, I decided it was best to close this chapter and move forward.”
She added that the support she received from fans during her break—through letters and messages—gave her the strength to face this decision.
“Since joining Morning Musume at 15, I’ve been surrounded by love and countless irreplaceable experiences. These memories will forever be treasures in my heart. I’ll do my best to express my gratitude in the short time left.”
Rio Kitagawa’s departure will mark the end of a six-and-a-half-year journey with Morning Musume, during which she grew from a teenage newcomer into one of the group’s standout personalities.
Although her path diverges from the group’s now, fans are hopeful she will find her footing in whatever direction she chooses next.
With UP-FRONT now preparing for her farewell activities, the end of 2025 will be an emotional one for Morning Musume fans—closing a chapter for not just one, but three members who’ve shaped the current generation’s story.