Reiko Kato Returns to Gravure After 26 Years: Her Reason for Choosing FRIDAY

“When I took a break from showbiz, I was actually prepared to retire. That’s why I’m both happy and surprised to be able to do another photoshoot like this.”

With the same charm she had back in the day and a sweet smile on her face, Reiko Kato (55), the legendary gravure queen, spoke these words.

Kato had stepped away from gravure after the release of her 1998 photobook FRAGILE. Furthermore, she put her entertainment career on hold following her marriage in 2001. Despite frequent calls for her return to gravure, it hadn’t materialized—until now.

Finally, this legendary figure, who continued to receive offers from the industry, made a bold decision. She made her long-awaited return after 26 years in the December 20 issue of FRIDAY.

 

The reason why she decided to appear in “FRIDAY”

“Back then, it was a bubble era where going on overseas shoots for an entire week was the norm, and all photos were shot on film. We couldn’t reshoot, so there was this constant tension, and we’d check the developed photos through a loupe (laughs). Now, you can immediately check the photos on a computer and adjust expressions with, ‘Let’s try this next!’ The adaptability is amazing. I found today’s conveniences impressive, but I also enjoyed the excitement of those days.”

Her composure as a seasoned professional who has experienced countless shoots is remarkable. But why did she choose FRIDAY out of the many offers she received?

“The biggest reason was an offer from a female editor in her 30s who didn’t know me back then. She said, ‘I’d love to see Reiko Kato’s gravure. Let’s create a beautiful work that appeals not just to men but also to women.’ That was the deciding factor for me. I couldn’t quite imagine how it would turn out, and that uncertainty made me excited instead.”

The paid edition, FRIDAY GOLD, features the full interview with Reiko Kato and many unpublished cuts from the shoot.