Akira Kusaka, prominent Niconico streamer, dies at 38

Popular Japanese streamer Akira Kusaka has passed away at the age of 38 due to acute heart failure. The news was announced by family members on Kusaka’s official X account on August 19, following her death on August 18.

Kusaka was a prominent figure in the early days of Niconico Live, active since 2009. She gained significant attention for her makeup-related broadcasts and was a member of the duo ‘Chemy Killer’ alongside her partner Akemi. In 2016, she co-opened a bar in Kyobashi, Osaka, though she had recently expressed intentions to pursue a new path in life independently.

Following the announcement, several notable figures expressed their condolences, including businessman Hiroyuki Nishimura, Niconico representative Takamasa Kurita, and fellow streamer Midori Yokoyama. A private family funeral will be held.