The Journey and Decisive Factors Leading to the JoJo Marriage with Issei Takahashi and Marie Iitoyo’s 17-Year Age Difference

Only FRIDAY Knows: “Under One Roof”

A Big Couple who nurtured their love in the same condominium achieves their happy ending two years after the FRIDAY scoop!

Representing the Reiwa era, a prominent couple has become one family. 

Actor Issei Takahashi (43) and model/actress Marie Iitoyo (26) announced their marriage on May 16th. Their relationship began when they co-starred in the drama adaptation of the popular manga spin-off “Thus Spoke Rohan Kishibe,” sparking discussion as the “JoJo Marriage.” 

“During breaks in filming, Takahashi, known for his health-conscious lifestyle, was seen engaging in subtle banter with Iitoyo, who he would recommend junk food and staying up late to. Takahashi often seemed withdrawn on set, spending a lot of time alone, so I really thought they got along well,” said a TV station insider.

FRIDAY had scooped their close relationship about two years ago (’22 August 19-26 issue). A friend of Iitoyo reflects:

“After finishing filming the second season of the drama around autumn to winter ’21, Marie-chan moved to the condominium where Takahashi-san lives. Although they have separate rooms, they started their life together under one roof. On days off, they seemed to spend their time exclusively in Takahashi-san’s room, without going outside.”

Regarding their relationship at the time, Takahashi’s agency refrained from commenting, while Iitoyo’s agency responded, “It is not true.” However, an acquaintance of Iitoyo’s affirmed, “There is no mistake that the two have been dating for over two years.”

In reality, even after the FRIDAY report, the two continued to nurture their love smoothly and have finally tied the knot. Takahashi has been known as a “co-star killer,” having been romantically linked with numerous actresses in the past. What was the reason for his decision to marry Iitoyo, who is 17 years younger than him? There were “three common points” that played a role.

The first point is “food.” Both of them are highly passionate about cooking. Takahashi is meticulous, even making ramen noodles from scratch, while Iitoyo is dedicated to crafting her own miso, showing a strong commitment to culinary pursuits.

“During their courtship, unable to go out for dates due to public scrutiny, they reportedly entertained each other with homemade meals. Both share a love for Japanese cuisine, with Takahashi occasionally serving his specialty dishes like simmered dishes such as Chikuzenni. Moreover, Takahashi was known to mention to those around him that he was obsessed with making nukadoko, which had also become a hobby for Iitoyo. Among insiders, there were rumors that he had started this hobby under her influence.” (As previously mentioned, TV station insider)

There are still more similarities. Both are known as indoor enthusiasts and share a love for reading. A friend of Iitoyo mentioned earlier revealed, “Last summer, Marie-chan bought the complete works of Natsume Soseki, which seems to have been influenced by Takahashi-san’s love for history.”

Additionally, both are known as passionate dog lovers and have in the past uploaded photos of their beloved dogs on social media. It seems these numerous commonalities became decisive factors leading them to consider marriage.

They continue to live in the same condominium where FRIDAY originally scooped them. This marriage seems unlikely to have any negative impact on their careers as actors.

“Their popularity stems largely from their acting skills rather than idol-like appeal, so I don’t think fans will leave just because they got married. Rather, they no longer need to worry about hiding their relationship and can freely spend time together. Stability in their private lives can positively impact their work as well.” (Entertainment agency insider)

Having become important partners in reality beyond their work, here’s to their lasting happiness!

From the June 7-14, 2024 issue of “FRIDAY