Tsubasa Imai reflects on career and bond with Hideaki Takizawa

Actor Tsubasa Imai appeared on the Nippon TV program ‘Oshare Clip’ to discuss his 31-year career and his experiences overcoming three periods of hiatus due to poor health. During the broadcast, Imai reflected on his deep bond with former duo partner Hideaki Takizawa.

Imai recalled a period in 2014 when he was forced to take a hiatus. He expressed gratitude toward Takizawa, who continued their ‘Tackey & Tsubasa’ live tours alone. Imai noted that Takizawa maintained the illusion of his presence by operating the stage crane Imai was supposed to use and even filled in for him on his regular radio program to keep his connection to fans alive.

Following a second hiatus in 2018, the duo disbanded and Imai left his agency of 23 years. He shared that while his future was uncertain at the time, he felt no anxiety. Imai also touched upon Takizawa’s decision to retire from entertainment, noting that he respects Takizawa’s resolve. Imai concluded by expressing his current mindset of being more relaxed and his determination for his future activities.