Kaito Takahashi of King & Prince Reveals Struggles with Sleepless Nights — Fans Voice Concern

King & Prince’s Kaito Takahashi Worries Fans Despite Returning to Work After Missing 24-Hour Television Appearance Due to Health Issues

King & Prince served as the charity partners for the special broadcast “24-Hour Television 48: Love Saves the Earth” (NTV), which aired on August 30–31. However, just before the broadcast, it was announced that member Kaito Takahashi (26) would not participate due to poor health, leaving Ren Nagase (26) to take the stage alone.

Takahashi later reported his return to work on September 5, but fans have continued to express concern over both members’ physical condition.

On the morning of the 30th, the group’s official social media announced Takahashi’s absence, stating: “To everyone who was looking forward to 24-Hour Television, we deeply apologize for the sudden news, but due to health concerns, Kaito Takahashi has decided to withdraw from the program to prioritize his well-being.”

Nagase proceeded with the appearance as planned. It was also announced that the dance project Takahashi had been preparing would now be carried out by Genta Matsuda (26) of Travis Japan, who would take on Takahashi’s role.

“Later, on September 5, Takahashi updated fans via his personal social media and FAMILY CLUB web blog, sharing that he had resumed work.

However, in a blog post on the 8th, he revealed, ‘Lately I’ve been having trouble sleeping,’ and mentioned discussing the issue with his manager. He wrote that the ongoing summer heat was a factor, saying things like, ‘It’s too hot to sleep,’ and ‘Not being able to sleep makes me anxious.’

Fans on social media responded with concern, commenting things like: ‘I’m worried Kaichan can’t sleep,’ and ‘When you can’t sleep for days, it can lead to other health issues. If he still needs rest, he should take more time off!’” (Entertainment writer)

“Not His Usual Self” — Kaito Takahashi’s Appearance on Uta-Con Raises Concern

On September 9, King & Prince appeared on NHK’s music program Uta-Con, performing their 2018 debut song “Cinderella Girl” and their latest track “What We Got ~Kiseki wa Kimi to~.”

“Although Takahashi had just returned to work, he was seen smiling during the performance and danced energetically to What We Got. However, his voice sounded slightly hoarse in parts, and possibly due to dark circles under his eyes, his complexion looked pale. Meanwhile, Nagase appeared to be wearing an earplug in his right ear,” noted an entertainment writer.

Nagase previously injured his right ear during preparations for the joint agency concert WE ARE! Let’s get the party STARTO!! held at Kyocera Dome Osaka on May 29 last year. He was absent from the performances on May 29–30 due to the injury.

At the time, the agency released a statement saying, “Nagase experienced symptoms of dizziness and was immediately taken to a hospital. Upon examination, damage was found inside his ear, and he underwent surgery.” Doctors advised two weeks of rest, and he temporarily paused his activities before returning.

Over a year has passed since the injury, but it seems his ear hasn’t fully recovered. During the recent 24-Hour TV broadcast, viewers noticed Nagase wearing an earplug midway through the program, prompting concern: “Is Ren’s ear okay?”

With this background, Takahashi’s appearance on Uta-Con also raised eyebrows. Some viewers commented:

“Is Kaito okay? His voice didn’t have its usual strength. And Ren was wearing an earplug too. I hope both of them aren’t pushing themselves too hard—maybe they should take a break.”

“Ren’s wearing an earplug in his right ear, and Kai-chan seemed to be struggling with his voice. I really hope they don’t overdo it.”

“Kaito didn’t seem to be moving his body as much as usual today on Uta-Con. I’m also worried about Ren’s ear. Please take some time to rest.”

“Kaito’s voice was totally different from usual. It felt like he was forcing himself. I’m worried whether they’ll be able to get back to 100%.”

In the midst of these concerns, King & Prince announced a new event: “King & Prince to Uchiage Hanabi 2025”—a dynamic entertainment show combining music and fireworks to be held November 15–16 at Chiba’s ZOZO Marine Stadium.

“The fans, who had been feeling down, are starting to brighten up again thanks to the announcement,” said the same entertainment writer.

Let’s hope both members are in top condition by November so they can enjoy this celebration with their fans.