Manatsu Akimoto discusses idol life on Japanese variety program

Former Nogizaka46 captain Manatsu Akimoto appeared as a guest on the Yomiuri TV and Nippon TV variety program ‘Uchi no Ko Nani Shiteru?’ hosted by Yoshihiko Inohara and Cookie. The program focuses on the lives of young people in unique professions and the families who support them from afar.

During the broadcast, the show featured Himawari Sasaki, a member of the underground idol group Hey!Mommy!, documenting her daily life, earnings, and performances. The episode included a quiz segment where Sasaki’s family in Tottori Prefecture answered questions about her career to earn prize money for her activities.

Akimoto shared personal reflections on her own career, noting that her parents initially opposed her idol activities before eventually becoming supportive. She also commented on the intense workload of underground idols, expressing surprise at seeing performers manage up to 200 live shows per year, a stark contrast to the seasonal tour schedules typical of major groups like Nogizaka46.