Once hailed as the perfect idol, Can Watanabe former leading member of the legendary group AKB48 disappeared from the public eye for almost 2000 days. What drove this national sweetheart to retreat so completely from fame, and what does her life look like today?
The rise of Japan’s ideal idol
Born in 1994, Can Watanabe he debuted at just 12 years old and quickly became one of the AKB48the most recognizable faces. As part of the elite Kami 7, Mayu dominated not only the music charts but also television, commercials, magazines and public events, solidifying her image as Japan’s No. 1 idol.
His charm lay in his balance: adorable but composed, charming but mature. Fans admired her professionalism and immaculate image. Throughout her career, she has steered clear of any scandal, earning her the nickname “The Royal Idol”, a symbol of grace, dedication and integrity.
TO AKB48After the annual general election, a fan-driven popularity vote, Mayu consistently placed in the top 5, taking the top spot in 2014. At that time, she wasn’t just an idol, she was a national icon, embodying the very ideal of a Japanese pop star.
His contributions included iconic hits such as Heavy rotation, Koisuru fortune cookieAND Sayonara Crawl. Outside of music, Mayu has acted in dramas such as Crow’s blood AND Cabasuka Gakuendemonstrating his reach and further deepening his connection with fans.
Yasushi Akimoto, AKB48The creator of, once said, “Mayu was born to be an idol.” With her robotic perfection, fans have nicknamed her “CG” or “cyborg” in reference to how she perfectly fits the traditional idol mold.
A shocking exit from the spotlight
In June 2017, Can Watanabe announced his graduation AKB48surprising fans by resigning immediately after placing second in the general election. His farewell concert filled the 37,000-seat Saitama Super Arena.
But it was in 2020 that he truly stunned fans by declaring that he was no longer a public figure. Citing health reasons, she voluntarily left her agency and officially stepped away from the entertainment industry.
His agency stated: “Mayu’s health is the top priority. She will step away from all entertainment activities and focus on physical and mental recovery. Please refrain from speculation or questions from the media.”
She became the first and only member of Kami 7 to completely leave the world of entertainment behind.
Since then, Mayu has disappeared. For over 5 years (almost 2000 days), there has not been a single update, no sightings, no social media activity, not even a rumor. It was as if she had disappeared from the Earth.
A recent look and a rumored love story
Recently, however, paparazzi claimed to have spotted a woman resembling Mayu leaving an apartment complex. Dressed entirely in black and with bleached blonde hair, something she had never experienced as an idol, the woman’s features were unmistakable.
Reporters were reportedly stationed near the apartment of Ota Motohiroa popular anime musical actor. Speculation quickly spread: Isa Can Watanabe live peacefully with him?
While no photos of them together emerged, Ota’s alleged girlfriend identified herself only as “A,” a woman in her thirties with large, expressive eyes and a once-great idol career fitting Mayu’s profile. “A” he reportedly avoids social media and lives a very private life.
Journalists also agree: “She was once a beloved idol, known for her work ethic and pristine image. Her dedication to staying out of the spotlight even now speaks volumes.”
And yet, AKB48 fans immediately recognized the “A” just by its silhouette and distinctive ears. While the media blurred her face, there was no doubt that Mayu had resurfaced.
The idol who chose peace over fame
Can WatanabeThe story of is not that of a fall, but of a deliberate departure. After representing an unattainable ideal for 14 years, he chose a life far from camera flashes, pressure and perfection.
Now, fans who once mourned his passing can finally breathe a little easier. Mayu seems to have found what she always deserved: a private and quiet life, away from the pressures of celebrity.
He may no longer be Japan’s No. 1 idol, but in the hearts of fans, Can Watanabe remains irreplaceable.
Sources: K14
