Former AKB48 member and actress Yui Yokoyama has announced that she is expecting her first child. The Japanese star shared the happy news with fans through her official social media account on June 15, revealing that she and her husband are preparing to welcome a new addition to their family later this year.

In her statement, Yokoyama expressed gratitude and excitement about becoming a mother. “I would like to share that we have been blessed with a new life. My husband and I are working together and eagerly looking forward to the day we can welcome our new family member.”

She also confirmed that her baby is due this fall and reassured fans that she intends to continue fulfilling her professional commitments while prioritizing her health. Yokoyama thanked supporters and industry colleagues for their continued encouragement, asking fans to watch over her journey warmly.

On the same day, Yokoyama’s husband, Shota Ushigome, also announced the pregnancy on social media. The couple quickly received an outpouring of congratulatory messages from fans across Japan, with many expressing excitement as the idol-star pair prepare to become parents for the first time.

Following the announcement, numerous current and former AKB48 members flooded Yokoyama’s social media accounts with supportive messages. Among those congratulating her were:

  • Minami Takahashi, who simply wrote, “Congratulations.”
  • Mariko Shinoda, who added, “Congratulations. Take good care of yourself.”

The messages highlighted the strong bonds that remain among former members of the iconic Japanese idol group.

Yui Yokoyama first rose to prominence as a member of AKB48. She was part of the group’s ninth generation and became one of its most recognizable members during her career. After graduating from AKB48, she successfully transitioned into acting and stage work. It was through the 2023 stage production I Don’t Want to Be a Hollywood Star! that she met Ushigome, a member of the Japanese vocal group Junretsu. The two reportedly developed a romantic relationship after working together on the production.

Yokoyama and Ushigome publicly acknowledged their relationship in 2024 before tying the knot in December of the same year. Now, less than two years after their wedding, the couple is preparing for a new chapter as parents.

The pregnancy announcement has been met with overwhelming support from fans, many of whom have followed Yokoyama’s journey from her AKB48 days to her current life as an actress, wife, and soon-to-be mother.

Sources: 네이트 뉴스