Why Hideaki Takizawa Didn’t Recruit His ‘Favorite Disciple’ Snow Man

“Originally, Takizawa, who displayed extraordinary talent and had outstanding fan popularity since his Junior days, was heavily pushed by the late Johnny Kitagawa for a solo debut. However, he strongly desired to debut as a duo with his close friend, so ‘Tackey & Tsubasa’ was formed.

Given his nature, his sense of loyalty and affection for Johnny’s Entertainment, which nurtured him, likely took precedence, preventing him from making a business-like decision to recruit Snow Man. This decision ended up saving both his former agency and his disciples. Nowadays, especially STARTO, the company that took over management, might be extremely grateful to Takizawa” (music industry insider).

In the past, “retired Johnny’s” talents were never allowed to appear together with those from their former agency. However, since the establishment of STARTO, those barriers are being removed. It seems that a figure like Takizawa may soon play a significant role in revitalizing Japanese entertainment.

FRIDAY Digital welcomes your information and tip-offs. Please send your information to the following information form or to the official X.

Information form: https://friday.kodansha.co.jp/tips

Official X: https://twitter.com/FRIDAY_twit