Former AKB48 idol Nishino Miki has once again shocked netizens, this time with the announcement of her pregnancy. The 25-year-old made the announcement alongside her 56-year-old husband, comedian Keiichi Yamamoto, in a video titled "The Yamato Family will/is grow[ing]" on May 21.
In the video, the couple can be seen giggling and enjoying each other's company. At one point, Nishino playfully says, "Don't imitate me," as Yamamoto mimics her actions.
The video, which also included details about their activities during Japan's "Golden Week," eventually revealed the real purpose: Nishino is pregnant.
The couple shared that they are doing well and that their baby is due in October.
IN CASE YOU MISSED THIS: AKB48's Weverse Debut Sparks Outrage Among Korean Fans While the announcement is joyful for the couple, the reaction online has been predominantly negative. The couple had already faced backlash when they announced their marriage in 2022 due to their 31-year age difference. Two years later, the disapproval remains strong.
One netizen commented, "What a horrible way to start my morning..." reflecting the general sentiment of discomfort with the significant age gap.
Many feel uneasy about the relationship dynamics, considering Nishino's young age in contrast to her much older husband.
unannounce it ! https://t.co/8O9IipLWb8
— lily (@nakogoblin) May 21, 2024
what a horrible way to start my morning. do better. https://t.co/gV9Tdpx0uV
— emo homo rumor back from the dead (@lexloserlosing) May 21, 2024
how to unread https://t.co/hvXPMc5Nqt pic.twitter.com/BNant1ktYN
— 遙◢͟￨⁴⁶ | COMMISSIONS OPEN📌 (@haruu_kun) May 21, 2024
im gagged in a bad way https://t.co/BZltO1lVet
— heta utsun jatta (@hetawoutsu) May 21, 2024
good for her ! BUT WHY MUST IT BE HIS BABY TOO.... https://t.co/RGSf04F91m
— myyu (@myyunique) May 21, 2024
hope not an ounce of his dna appears https://t.co/YTjmIrIird
— syu 🦝 (@faerytell) May 21, 2024
Despite the happy news, the controversy surrounding their relationship persists. The couple's significant age gap continues to be a point of contention among netizens, overshadowing the excitement of their growing family.
Meanwhile, AKB48's debut on Weverse, a platform by South Korea's HYBE Corporation, has sparked mixed reactions among Korean fans. Some are shocked and skeptical, questioning the decision, while others support it, noting Weverse's global nature.
The controversy has also led to debates about the platform's purpose and HYBE's intentions. AKB48, known for their unique "idols you can meet" concept, will join Weverse on April 27, coinciding with the release of their 61st single.
You watch the full video here.
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Written by Cassidy Jones.
