Japanese AV actress Honjo Ai has officially retired from the industry, months after she was caught in a high-profile affair with popular livestreamer Junichi Kato—a married man at the time of their relationship.

The news broke in September 2024, when tabloids revealed the two had been secretly dating since late 2022. They were spotted attending a Shohei Ohtani game together, sparking immediate backlash. Honjo later released a video apology, tearfully explaining she was unaware Kato was still married, claiming he had told her he was “almost divorced.” She admitted to a physical relationship but stressed, “I don’t see this as an affair—I was deceived,” before announcing an indefinite hiatus.

Now, nearly three months later, adult industry insider Ichiken Kanshunshu confirmed on his blog PLAY NO.1 that Honjo has “truly disappeared” from the scene. Her agency released a “retirement compilation”—a final edited collection of her 19 past AV works, signaling the end of her career. “She never returned to filming after the scandal,” he wrote. “This is her goodbye.”

The agency reportedly acknowledged the fallout was too severe to overcome. “Having an affair with a married man is damaging enough,” one rep noted. “Unlike other scandals, this one destroyed her public image.” Ichiken also speculated that Honjo’s wealthy family might have discouraged her from returning to the public eye.

Netizens and fans expressed mixed emotions. Some mourned the quiet exit, saying: “She was truly lovable. It’s a shame she had to go like this.” Others placed blame squarely on Junichi Kato, with one fan lamenting: “Streamer boy, I hate you for this.”

Honjo Ai

Kato, for his part, has since divorced, confirming the rumors. But while his career continues, Honjo Ai’s ends in silence—without a formal farewell. “At least say goodbye,” Ichiken pleaded in his post, reflecting the sentiments of fans who feel she deserved a better send-off.

Honjo Ai’s story is a stark reminder of how public perception, especially in Japan’s entertainment and adult industries, can shift rapidly in the wake of scandal—and how women often bear the heavier cost.