Akari Takaishi, Juri Uesaka, and Meru Nukumi Dazzle in New Year’s Kimono

I cried a lot.

“’25 was a year in which I was supported by many people and gained many different kinds of learning. This year, I want to do my best to take that learning and deliver something good to everyone.”

Appearing in a black kimono adorned with large peony patterns was Akari Takaishi (23).

At the annual “Avex Management Agency 2026 Kimono Debut Event,” held at the Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa, International Pavilion Pamir “Kyokko,” the company’s actors—including Akari Takaishi, Juri Uesaka (20), and Meru Nukumi (23)—showcased their kimono appearances.

Takaishi, who stars in the current NHK morning drama series Bakebake, greeted the audience as above. She then held up a card with her goal for the year, “Shoka” (sublimation), and explained:

“Exactly one year ago, at this same kimono debut event, I chose the kanji ‘Hana’ (flower), wishing for a year in which flowers would bloom. This time, I added the kanji ‘Sho’ (rise) to it, so that with the ‘Hana’ I gained in ’25, I can rise higher. That’s why I chose the kanji ‘Shoka’ (sublimation).”

Finally, when asked about her kimono, she said:

“This time I chose black, which gives a slightly more adult atmosphere. I feel like I might be unconsciously giving off an adult vibe. (laughs),”

and made a playful expression, causing the audience to burst into laughter.

Speaking of morning dramas, Juri Uesaka, who will co-star with Ai Miagami (25) in the first half of the ’26 NHK morning drama Kaze, Kaoru, appeared in a calm and composed kimono. Holding a card with her goal for the year, “Carefully, Boldly,” she said:

“’26 will be the year I turn 21, so I want to approach each new work carefully and, at times, take bold steps forward. That’s why I wrote this on my card.”

She spoke in a calm tone beyond her 20 years. When asked about her reaction to learning she would star in a morning drama, she said excitedly:

“I was so happy I cried a lot—I was wrapped in such surprise, joy, and happiness that I couldn’t quite understand it.”

Meru Nukumi, who starred as the heroine in the movie The Last Song You Left Behind, which will be released in March, appeared in a vibrant red and gold kimono suitable for New Year’s.

“’25 was more of a preparation period, so in ’26, I hope it will be a year where I can show everyone what I’ve been preparing.

I want to be someone people say, ‘You’re on every day,’ in all kinds of work—acting, variety, modeling.

Since it’s the Year of the Woman (my zodiac year), I want to keep going without stopping, without resting. I’ll do my best!”

Smiling throughout, she repeated her determined statements and energized the audience.

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