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| Akiko Kuji Announces First Pregnancy With Basketball Star Husband Yuta Watanabe (Photo: Sponichi) |
Former Fuji TV announcer, model, actress and talent Akiko Kuji has kicked off 2026 with joyful personal news, announcing that she is expecting her first child with her husband, professional basketball player Yuta Watanabe.
The 31-year-old shared the announcement on 1 January through her social media, opening her message with a warm New Year greeting before revealing the milestone.
She wrote that at the beginning of the new year, she had something important to share, confirming that a new life has joined their family journey.
Alongside her message, Akiko Kuji posted a calm and intimate photo showing her and her husband sitting side by side on a bench under a clear blue sky.
The understated image reflected the tone of her announcement — peaceful, hopeful, and full of quiet happiness.
The announcement quickly drew warm reactions from fans and industry friends, many of whom praised Akiko Kuji for sharing such a calm and heartfelt update at the start of the year, while also sending supportive messages to Yuta Watanabe as he balances his professional commitments with this new family milestone, making the moment feel even more special for those who have followed their journey over the years.
In her statement, Akiko Kuji shared that she and her husband are looking forward to the day they meet their new family member and are currently spending their time enjoying steady, gentle days together.
She also thanked followers for their continued support and wished everyone well for the year ahead.
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Akiko Kuji later added that she feels truly happy and supported during this new chapter, noting that her husband has been constantly by her side.
Friends and fans quickly responded with congratulatory messages, praising the couple for sharing such a sincere and heart-warming update.
Akiko Kuji left Fuji TV in April 2022 after building a strong career in broadcasting, where she appeared on several major programmes as a presenter and assistant.
She married Yuta Watanabe in May the same year.
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Yuta Watanabe made history as one of Japan’s pioneering NBA players, debuting in the league in 2023 before returning to play professionally in Japan with Chiba Jets.
This announcement feels like a meaningful new chapter not only for the couple but also for fans who have followed their journeys on and off the court. What are your thoughts on their New Year news?