Koizumi Kyoko Shows No Signs of Slowing Down Racing Toward Her 60s

A cold night wind blew through Shimokitazawa, the theater district.

One evening, fans and staff were gathered near the stage door of a theater in Tokyo. The surrounding streets were wrapped in quiet darkness, but there was a unique buzz of excitement in this spot, where people were waiting for the appearance of actress Kyoko Koizumi (59).

On this day, the play being performed was “Don’t Look for Me”, written and directed by Ryo Iwamatsu (73). The cast included Ryo Katsuji (39) and the rapidly rising Yumi Kawai (24), among others, making it a highly talked-about production. The leading role was, of course, taken by Koizumi herself.

Only 1,000 units produced!

It was just past 8:30 p.m. when Koizumi appeared at the theater exit, clad in a black coat. She radiated an aura that felt both elegant and slightly untouchable, as if carrying the lingering energy of the performance.

What was truly astonishing was her car. Glinting in the dark, with a rounded body, distinctive round headlights, and a chrome front grille, it was a rare classic—only about 1,000 were ever produced. Even on the used car market, this phantom masterpiece is seldom seen.

“Amazing, really. Koizumi, of course, once drove a Prius with environmental awareness in mind. And now, she chooses a classic car from over 20 years ago.

But when you think about it, it’s very her. It’s not packed with the latest features, but the interior leather, wooden panels, and meticulous craftsmanship make it authentic. Rather than chasing trendy luxury SUVs or EVs, she chooses what she finds beautiful and what carries the spirit of its maker. This really reflects how she approaches her work and life today,” said an entertainment reporter from a sports magazine.

A top runner in the entertainment world from the Showa through Heisei and Reiwa eras, Koizumi once again cut through the night’s darkness behind the wheel of her own car.

The other day, the annual “2025 T&D Insurance Group New Words and Buzzwords Awards,” selected by Gendai Yōgo no Kiso Chishiki, were announced. The grand prize of the year went to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (64) for her remark, “I will work, work, work, work, work, and continue working.” True to her words, she has already tackled numerous issues, maintaining high approval ratings.

In recent years, Kyoko Koizumi has also attracted attention in the entertainment industry as a rare actress who does not stay silent. From protesting the revision of the Public Prosecutor’s Office Act to harshly criticizing slush fund scandals, she sets herself apart from entertainers who avoid political commentary and carefully watch their agencies’ reactions.

Why does she continue to speak out without fear of risk? Entertainment reporter Takayuki Shiroshita, who has closely observed the industry for years, analyzes the background as follows:

“Her political statements are not mere whims. In her own life, she has founded companies, nurtured people, and experienced various troubles. Based on these real-life experiences, she has reached the point where she feels, ‘It’s okay to put my thoughts out into the world.’

It’s similar to when Shintaro Ishihara ran for governor, and Tetsuya Watari and Hiroshi Tachi from the Ishihara faction gave supporting speeches. It’s the same concept: ‘Support people whose beliefs align with yours,’ and ‘Speak out when something is wrong.’ She simply does this openly. Naturally, there will be opposing opinions and criticism, but she carries out her actions fully aware and ready to accept them.”

Shiroshita further referenced Prime Minister Takaichi to express a striking view on Koizumi’s potential:

“Honestly, I think Koizumi could even enter politics. Her name recognition is outstanding, and unlike many current politicians who act vaguely, she has clear statements in her own words. She wouldn’t be carried simply because she is a woman; if she enters politics with substantial positions, she could make a significant impact. There would naturally be both supporters and critics, but she possesses that level of influence.”

“After All, It’s Sixty”: The Ultimate 60s Who Doesn’t Sell Herself Short

Next February, Kyoko Koizumi will finally celebrate her 60th birthday.

She refuses to bow to the current film industry’s budget constraints, instead choosing stage productions that are financially viable and streaming projects with ample funding—maintaining a stance of not selling herself short.

“Forty years have passed since her smash hit ‘Nantettatte Idol’ in 1985. Now, she is living a life for no one but herself. Red retirement robes wouldn’t suit her; she will rock even her sixtieth year with a punk flair, becoming the ultimate 60-year-old,” said the previously cited entertainment reporter.

Koizumi is stepping on the accelerator once again, adding another new legend to her legacy.