Shiro Ito announces retirement from entertainment industry

Japanese comedian and actor Shiro Ito has announced his retirement from the entertainment industry. His agency, Orte Kikaku, stated that he will step down on June 15, 2027, coinciding with his 90th birthday.

During a press conference held on October 3, Ito addressed the decision with his characteristic humor. He noted that physical decline in areas such as vision, hearing, and mobility has made it difficult to continue filming dramas without causing inconvenience to staff and cast members. Despite the announcement, he joked about potentially retracting his decision if pressured by the large turnout of media personnel.

Ito, known for his long career spanning nearly 70 years and his roles in popular works like the NHK drama ‘Oshin’, discussed his lifestyle and health habits, which include walking and mental exercises like memorizing the digits of pi. He expressed a desire to pursue hobbies like tennis in his retirement. His long-running radio program on Bunka Hoso is scheduled to conclude shortly before his official retirement date.