jpop news

Kame & Jun's Double Date

2008-06-27T15:02:00.003+09:00

Kamenashi Kazuya was seen with Matsumoto Jun and two other pretty girls at a soccer match. It was supposed that they have gone on a double date to watch a soccer match.

This +1 Football Match features Nakata Hidetoshi. They were seen sitting in the VIP section in side by side, Matsujun's date, Matsujun, some random guy, Kame and then Kame's girl.

As most people who were there, are probably hardcore soccer fans, they are not really concern about who were sitting near them except for a few people closest to them. Kame and Jun seemed very comfortable talking and behaving intimately in an open public space with their dates, enjoying themselves.

However, at about 42 minutes after kickoff, Kame's face appeared on the big screen, to his left you could see a guy wearing a black shirt and on the right was the shoulder of a girl with straight brown hair wearing a black and white striped shirt. A quick shot i guess. Other observers noticed Kame's date resembles the model Rina (who has been linked to Akanishi Jin) and Kame's date. Jun's date was said to be very pretty as well so it is highly possible that both of them are in the industry too.

When questioning Rina's agency, they commented, "She was doing a location shoot for ViVi in Izu and Shimoda (in Shizuoka) at 7pm. And it was confirmed she was in Shimoda until about 8 - 9pm and arrived at Tokyo only after midnight. If she was out with Kamenashi it would be okay (not bad for her image), we would not mind but it was someone else. She's half Japanese, half American so people often mistake similar looking girls for her."

This was published in the 26th June 2008 issue of Josei Seven. I was wondering if there is any picture, please share if you have it! =)

Leah Dizon's Vanilla Affair

2008-06-27T14:53:00.006+09:00

Leah Dizon appeared in Shibuya on 25th June 2008 to introduce her 5th single “Vanilla”.

Leah was dressed in cute maid costume, serving vanilla ice cream. About 2,000 people (i doubt they are ALL fans) gathered in front of the little ice cream caravan-bus

Leah promoting her new single, saying the new song is “pure and sweet" and presented vanilla ice cream together with the new CD to fans

I thought her legs look very odd in this maid costume. Over-built? Looks too muscular and not soft and fluffy like those skin of the maids we see in animes. Well... Considering Leah is trying a different style compared to her car model sexiness in the past. Let's keep our mouths shut. LOL

Learn Korean with BoA's songs

2008-06-27T14:42:00.002+09:00

As the Korean wave has been constant and still ongoing, Avex is smart enough to come up with Korean Language DVD which feature songs of popular Korean artists such as Boa and DBSQ!

Now you can learn Korean by studying words that come out in BoA songs from this new DVD named, "Learn Korean with BoA Songs." This DVD focuses on BoA's hit Korean song No.1 for one whole hour!

It comes with a comprehensive booklet on the Korean lyrics! This DVD will be released in Japan for 2,940 Yen (about USD27) this coming 25th July 2008.

Popularity Hits Ranking

2008-06-27T13:16:00.002+09:00

U22 Actress Search Engine Hits Ranking
Results are based on how many hits their names bring up in a search.

1) Nagasawa Masami
2) Sawajiri Erika
3) Ueto Aya
4) Aragaki Yui
5) Miyazaki Aoi
6) Horikita Maki
7) Aibu Saki
8) Aoi Yu
9) Suzanne
10) Ueno Juri

U22 Actress mixi Community Participation Ranking
This one counted how many communties they have on mixi and how many members.

1) Miyazaki Aoi - 54,816 members 80 comms
2) Aoi Yu - 44,008 members 44 comms
3) Aragaki Yui - 37,330 members 142 comms
4) Nagasawa Masami - 25,123 members 73 comms
5) Kitagawa Keiko - 19,372 members 19 comms
6) Toda Erika - 19,041 members 36 comms
7) Aibu Saki - 17, 822 members 43 comms
8) Sawajiri Erika - 14,141 members 90 comms
9) Horikita Maki - 13,651 members 35 comms
10) Suzanne - 13,636 members 33 comms

Based on these results the following were named Top 3:
1) Nagasawa Masami
2) Miyazaki Aoi
3) Aragaki Yui

Most Unwanted Endorsement Female Celebrities

2008-06-27T13:06:00.003+09:00

This is funny and interesting so I decided to share it.

1) Kanda Uno
2) Hisamoto Masami
3) Hosoki Kazuko
4) Koda Kumi
5) Hirosue Ryoko
6) Wada Akiko
Matsushima Nanako
Ando Miki
7) Dewi Sukarno
8) Hamasaki Ayumi
9) Ueto Aya

Kanda Uno is because of her divorce news.
Hisamoto Masami has a vulgar style.
Koda Kumi is because of her rotten womb comment.
Hirosue Ryoko has bad working reputation of many frictions and problems.

Matsushima Nanako is really hot and pretty but a little 'expired' and out of trend i guess.
Hamasaki Ayumi, supposingly a queen but her ear problem cause uneasiness and concern.
What is CM Queen Ueto Aya was ranked here? Oh, because she has been endorsing so many stuff until it makes the product look "cheap" and "common" so having little effect on sales products.

Oricon Surveys

2008-06-27T12:54:00.002+09:00

High schoolers' Fashion Idols

Girls' Category
1) Kaela Kimura
2) Ayumi Hamasaki
3) Becky
4) Miho Tanaka
5) Yuri Ebihara

Boys' Category
1) Takuya Kimura
2) Hyde
3) Tsuyoshi Domoto
Mocomichi Hayami
Joe Odagiri

Kaela Kimura is a pretty unique individual with the supermodel face and mushroom head hairstyle. HAHA. Ayu is always in the list when comes to fashion, you can bet on that. Beck is like super colorful and flashy, no wonder it is the High Schoolers' favorite.

Kimura always look good in anything. Hyde from L'Arc~en~Ciel is known for his fashion sense so it earned him the spot and Domoto is also too cute in everything. LOL

Sexiest Guys
1) Akanishi Jin
2) Masaharu Fukuyama
3) Takuya Kimura
4) Mocomichi Hayami
5) Hyde
6) Hiro Mizushima
7) Hiroshi Tamaki
8) Gackt
9) Jun Matsumoto
Yu Shirota

Woots. Jin topped the list, I thought Kame looks sexier. No offence, I am a Kame Lover. HAHA.

Kimura as usual. Mocomichi Hayami and Hiro Mizushima are getting the spots due to their drama, Zetta Kareshi (It is a MUST-WATCH, i recommend). The rest are pretty the usual few.

Hana Yori Dango Final Special

2008-06-27T12:50:00.002+09:00

A special press conference for the "Hana Yori Dango Final" movie was held at the Nippon Budokan on 23rd June 2008, Monday.

With anticipation running high for the film's opening this coming Saturday, 28th June 2008, it was announced that TBS is going to air a one-hour special on tonight, Friday at 10:00pm.

The special will include a mini-episode that takes place just before the storyline of the movie. It was quickly filmed on Monday morning before the press conference. The show will also be partly broadcast live, with Arashi performing a theme song medley. Members of the group will even make an appearance as themselves in the mini-drama.

"Hana Yori Dango" has had two successful seasons as a drama series, and this movie will finally bring the story to a close.

Koda Kumi & Nakai Masahiro Sweet Date

2008-06-27T12:25:00.003+09:00

Nakai Masahiro and Koda Kumi had an overnight stay at upscale inn in Yugawara, Kanagawa and Friday magazine caught snaps of the couple. Josei Seven had reported a similar story saying they were together at an inn in Hakone several weeks back. Looks like these two are still going strong and loving.

Both agencies commented that it was a private matter and had no comment.

Nakai drove them in his Benz and on the way there they will stop to take pictures/video of the scenery and each other. That sound so sweet doesn it!

Later an interview with Nakai's mom was published. She has strangely commented that "no, she has never heard of her son and Koda Kumi dating, not even once." She had only met Koda Kumi serveral times during SMAP concerts, and that the meetings were really rare. Madam Nakai thought Koda Kumi looked really cute(kawaii).

When asked if she wanted her son to marry soon, she commented that "I'll leave marriage plans up to him. It's his own choice."

Her preferred marriage partner for Nakai should have a "bright character, but does not talk too much". Though Koda Kumi scored a "cute" grade, she do not really fit in the "do not talk too much" category. HAHA!

It is funny the pictures are all out and Madam Nakai still have no clue about it.

Random KAT-TUN Scopes

2008-06-27T12:12:00.005+09:00

o Akanishi Jin was seen to be spending nights at a gay bar in Shinjuku's Ni-choume district in late May 2008. FYI, Ni-choume is known for its gay scene.

o Nakamaru Yuuichi has entered Waseda University. It was said he was hoping to have a second chance at getting with announcer Takashima Aya, who rejected him in the past. He will be producing his own 90-minute show called "Nakamaru-kun no Tanoshii Jikan". Being a One-man show, he will also be in charge of planning and directing.

Nakamaru is actually the first member of KAT-TUN to get a solo show, and he said he was uncertain about it when discussions started in January. Nakamaru commented that he has tried to squeeze everything he wants to try into the performances, which are scheduled to run for about 90 minutes each. Segments include song, dance, beatboxing, and skits."Nakamaru-kun no Tanoshii Jikan" will first run at The Globe Tokyo from 10th August till 24th August 2008.

o And now Tatsuya Ueda will be the first to hold a solo concert. The concert will take place in September 2008 at the specially constructed Johnnys Theater in Aomi, Tokyo.

Ueda is currently scheduled to perform 13 songs across various genres such as rock, dance, ballad, and folk. He wrote and composed the songs himself. In addition, Ueda will be in charge of directing and producing his first one-man stage show.

Ueda said that he will also demonstrate what he has gained from his hobby of boxing. For roughly the past three years, he has been going to the gym almost daily, developing a well-trained physique.

Maki Goto at Annual Avex Concert & Koda Kumi's Breakdown

2008-06-27T11:56:00.004+09:00

Maki Goto is making a Comeback with her newly signed contract with Avex Trax. After being "frozen" for several months due to her brother's theft arrest in last October 2007 and sentence of 5 years jail. Now things are finally looking better for the Goto family.

Her blog indicated during her One-Month stay in Los Angeles, she took up dance and vocal trainings to be better prepare herself for this comeback. Leaving her Upfront-Artist Agency, Maki Goto is now rightfully signed under Avex Trax.

Maki has performed on Avex's 20th anniversary celebration on last Sunday 22nd June 2008, holding its annual concert for stockholders. 11 other Avex stars like Ayumi Hamasaki and Koda Kumi are scheduled to perform. However, Ayu was absent due to her national tour.

The remaining artists who performed as per scheduled, are Exile, Namie Amuro, Noriyuki Makihara and Ai Otsuka, Koda Kumi and Maki Goto.

Koda Kumi cried and apologised to the stockholders during the concert regarding the "rotten womb" incident that was broadcast over the radio late January this year 2008.

I guess the incident did not really affect the Avex stockholders as Avex had recorded 104.6 billion yen sales in 2007, which is the highest in its 20-year history. Money sucking huh?

Arashi's Short Asia Tour

2008-06-27T11:50:00.004+09:00

During Arashi's performance at the Tokyo Dome on 15th June 2008, Sunday that the group announced that they will be holding a short Asia concert tour later this year.

The tour starts on 5th September 2008 at the Tokyo National Stadium and will travel to 4 cities for a total of 8 concerts, with an expected overall attendance of 173,000 people. The Taipei for concerts on 11th and 12th October 2008, followed by Seoul on 1st and 2nd November 2008, and finally Shanghai on 15th November 2008. The finale is in Shanghai, where no other Johnny's artist has performed before.

When is KAT-TUN gonna do a tour? And why Singapore is never considered as one of the tour destination? Because we are too small? =(

Toma playing Danny in "Grease" Play

2008-06-27T11:44:00.001+09:00

The HIT musical "Grease" is going to be performed in Tokyo later this year. It was announced on 6th June 2008 that rising actor Toma Ikuta is playing the lead part of Danny Zuko.

His supporting cast includes Sayaka Kanda as his girlfriend Sandy, former Morning Musume member Miki Fujimoto as the Pink Ladies leader Rizzo, and Musical Academy member Tomoyuki Yara as Kenickie.

The production opens at the Aoyama Theatre on 20th October 2008 and will finish up in Osaka during November. Tokyo peeps can look forward to this!

BoA collaborate to sing for Sichuan Earthquake

2008-06-27T11:37:00.003+09:00

BoA and 9 other singers are remaking an english version a famous song named “Dedication of Love".

These singers are from Brazil, Paris, Indonesia, Russia, Korea represented by BoA, Ukraine, India, Oman, Greece and China. Producers Roald Hoffmann and Brian Alan initially invited these 10 singers to sing their composition ” The Same Earth”. Recording will take place in New York.

But the earthquake in Sichuan happened and the 2 producers saw the chinese version of “Dedication of Love” sang in China on one of the funds raising shows for the earthquake area. Thay also learn that this song has been sung for over 10 years in China.

Hence, they made the decision to remake this song.It will be a world wide release for this single, and all singers have agreed that all the earnings for this release will be contributed to the Sichuan Earthquake to help rebuild the area. The recording has taken place in Beijing on the 9th June 2008.

Code Blue Theme Song and Comparing of Maou & Code Blue

2008-06-27T11:20:00.004+09:00

The band Mr.Children will be singing the theme song for Fuji TV medical drama "Code Blue," which was publicly announced last month in May.

"Code Blue," starring Tomohisa Yamashita, Yui Aragaki, and Erika Toda, starts its run on July 3, Thursday. It is highly anticipated by many as these rising stars come together for such a serious medical drama.

It is also used to be compared with Yamapi's best friend, Toma Ikuta's new drama "Maou" will be airing on Friday nights. So the ratings will be compared definitely.

I am sure it does not ruin their long years of friendship. LOL

Yui Aragaki's 20th Birthday, Blog Closed

2008-06-27T11:05:00.003+09:00

On Yui's 20th Birthday on 11th June, she officially declared to close her blog at Ameblo.

According to her last entry," Today is my 20th birthday, which is the end of my teenage life. Since I started the blog for a limited time until Jan 1, 2008, and extended the closure date, it is the right time to end it today. I really appreciate my fans who post more than 1,000 comments whenever I write an entry.”

For Yui's every post, there will be at least 1000 - 5000 comments left by fans. I wonder if she really have the time to read ALL of them though. This also pushed Yui Aragaki's blog to be the top in among all the Ameblo celebrities' blogs.

Anyway, Yui is moving on to be an adult. Omedetto Yui chan.

Ayase Haruka is the No.1 BAKA

2008-06-27T10:59:00.003+09:00

In the messy showbiz industry, being street-smart is really important to keep yourself safe and loved by people.

Yet Ayase Haruka was said to be the number 1 Baka (stupid person) in the entertainment world. She stood out among the other few celebrities like Kinoshita Yukina and halfie-looking model Suzanne, who are all known for their air-headed and baka-antics. But it was said when the cameras are not around, these people have steady characters with self-awareness and not that stupid after all.

And Ayase Haruka was said that she cannot even read secondary school-level Kanji characters and have little thought of consequences. Sometimes fellow talents ask her for her number with cunning motives that almost everyone can sense yet Ayase cannot see it. It is bad huh?

In order to protect Ayase from getting into trouble / pregnant, her company had issued an order to her to preserve her chastity. LOL. How amusing.

Ayase, your acting is great and you are really cute but it is high time to get smart!

Too Busy for Updates

2008-06-27T10:55:00.002+09:00

Sorry for neglecting this site and perhaps my dear readers. Many news are interesting these days but I am just so lazy to start typing them. haha

I will continue a little from here =)

Shun Oguri's New Love?

2008-05-26T11:20:00.003+09:00

We were pretty disappointed to learn about this news that Oguri was seen introducing another girl as his girlfriend to his close friend, Kamiji Yusuke’s family.

The full story goes, Oguri travelled outta Tokyo to Uraga to visit his Kamiji's family. He brought along a girl with him which was said not to be Yamada Yuu, according to Kamiji's neighbor.

To bring a girl this far outta Tokyo to visit a friend's family together. Then Oguri is also rumoured to have get back together with his ex-girlfriend in 2005, Yakuchi Mari who was used to be from Morning Musume.

Oh dear, please don't disappoint us Oguri! =(
Hope there is some follow-up on it soon..

Code Blue Confirmed and Cast Announced

2008-05-26T11:11:00.003+09:00

There have been rumors of a Fuji TV drama series made up of Yamapi, Erika Toda and Yui Aragaki and the theme of it is medical. We were so excited to hear the combination of these 3 hottest stars together and was hoping it was not just a rumor. Lucky us!

The drama series titled "Code Blue" were confirmed to be showing on Thursdays in July! The show will be led by the main, Yamapi. The drama's full title is "Code Blue: Doctor Heli Kinkyu Kyumei".

It will be based on Japan's proposal for an emergency medical service using helicopters to quickly reach those in need. A special bill was passed in June 2007 that should foster widespread adoption of the system. Yamapi stars as a young doctor-in-training, working under the guidance of an experienced "flight doctor" (Toshiro Yanagiba).

Some scenes will be filmed with a real helicopter, adding to the show's tension, etc. So exciting! The strong supporting cast will include Yui Aragaki, Erika Toda, Manami Higa, Yosuke Asari, Kiyoshi Kodama, Ryo, Tetta Sugimoto, Susumu Terajima, Masanobu Katsumura.

Fuji TV will broadcast "Code Blue" on Thursday nights at 10:00pm, starting sometime in July. Oh boy, I can't wait!!!

Source: tokyography

Yamapi's new girlfriend?

2008-05-16T13:19:00.003+09:00

After the broke-up with Abiru, Yamapi seems to move on fast huh. It was said his new girlfriend is a former model of a girl magazine called “egg” and she resembles Abiru Yuu. Yamapi & this unknown girl have known each other since high school.

Of course Johnny’s Entertainment comment that, “All these rumours are baseless!”

Maybe it is really rumours only or?? Time will tell. ;)

Koda Kumi replaced by Kyoko Fukada in Kirin Ad

2008-05-16T13:13:00.002+09:00

Koda Kumi's career seems to be picking up now with the new endorsement and concert, singles coming up. However, her rude comment early this year was still remembered by many. Hence, of course negative perceptions were formed and hard to remove.

The loss of a recent commercial contract for Kirin's chuhai brand Hyoketsu. The company stated that the contract had always been set to expire this spring so Kirin has chosen actress Kyoko Fukada to represent the brand instead.

Maki Horikita as "Miss Cotton"

2008-05-16T13:08:00.002+09:00

It is funny how Japan Entertainment Industry have all kinds of suveys and awards.

Cotton USA Awards, meant to help promote the cotton industry, were presented on Wednesday in Tokyo. The awards are given to celebrities who possess "softness" and "freshness," just like cotton.

This year, Maki Horikita was given the title of Miss Cotton, while Eiko Koike was named Mrs. Cotton (she married pro wrestler Wataru Sakata last August). TOKIO's Taichi Kokubun was chosen as Mr. Cotton.

Maki sure looks pale and soft with a sense of purity. (^-^)

End of Yamapi & Abiru

2008-05-13T19:42:00.002+09:00

As per Uwasako's entry, I thought it was interesting to share...

If you have forgotten about Abiru cheating on Yamapi's entry, here is a recap. Yuu met up with her ex-boyfriend, ISSA from Da Pump.

It was said that Yamapi was really upset after learning about all these and according to Abiru's friend, Yamapi told Abiru:"I had always trusted you, but now I never want to see you again!" And Abiru told her friend, Yamapi dumped her.

After all the threats & opposition from the jimusho, after all the talk about how she's ruining his image and several times she and ISSA showed up together in drinking parties, Yamapi was always trying trust her and side her. It must be really hurting for Yamapi.

When their relationship was doing well, she hung out with ther Johnny's members and now she's since moved on to DA PUMP as she was spotted in a Roppongi bar with members YUKINARI and KEN. So verstile of Abiru Yuu.

Yamapi's fans must be really happy that he finally see the true side of her. Let's hope Yamapi get over it soon. And Abiru, i guess u really don't know how to cherish. LOL

Nakamaru start University studies

2008-05-13T19:40:00.001+09:00

This spring, KAT-TUN member Yuuichi Nakamaru (24) entered Waseda University as a correspondence student in the Department of Human Behavior and Environment Sciences. He attended an entrance ceremony at Waseda's Toyama campus on April 1.

Nakamaru started thinking of attending university in 2005. He had developed an interest in environmental studies, and he decided to take an exam in December 2006. About a year later, he was selected for admission after going through the interview process and entrance examination.

Nakamaru said he is serious about graduating, even if "it takes him 8 years."

Let's hope his studies will not affect KAT-TUN activities such as concert tours & single, album release.

Oguri Shun & Yamada Yuu are OFFICIALLY DATING!

2008-05-09T12:37:00.006+09:00

Initially I did not want to include this news because I was not a huge fan of Oguri but I guess I am becoming now...

6th May 2008, Oguri and Yuu were rumored to be dating by SpoNichi (NichiSports). They met during the filming of Binbou Danshi this year (2008) January and probably developed special feelings for each other through it.

It was initially rumoured that both of them got together and broke up with their respective partners. Orguri broke up with Tanaka Miho and Yamada Yuu broke up with Ito Hideaki. However everything was only gossips and rumors.

Until Oguri admitted that,"Yu is a very precious girlfriend to me" during a radio broadcasting programme he attended yesterday, 8th May 2008. I guess we all know most probably what it meant! (^-^)

Oguri even mentioned that he was so excited to see himself appear on the front page of a newspaper that he picked up ten copies. Then Yu wrote in her blog that," Oguri is very special and important to her." And Yu's agency has also acknowledged that the two are seeing each other as well. Oguri's management, on the other hand, did not give any comment.

Well, Oguri is a raising star, one of the busiest guy in the Japanese Entertainment Industry these days. It is obvious why his management did not want to make any unnecessary comments. It is lucky that Yu has a good reputation too or objections might arise. But even if it does, I am sure Oguri will overcome them all and still be with Yu.

While other stars try to make least comment or deny having relationships even if they are in one, Oguri proudly declaring his relationship with Yu, really makes us feel so touched by his "MANLY-NESS". Yu is so fortunate. HAHA

YOU'RE THE MAN, 小栗旬！

BoA's Concept Single - Vivid

2008-05-08T11:25:00.003+09:00

BoA is to release a concept single on 4th June 2008. The new single titled "Vivid" indicates, the theme for the music, artwork, and music videos is vivid. The single will include the following songs:

1) Kissing You (Used as theme song for "Shichinin no Onna Bengoshi")
2) Sparkling (Song for CM "Zespri Kiwifruit")
3) Joyful Smile

The first press of the CD will include some offshot pictures from the photo shoot for the jacket and a digest version of the "Kissing you" and "Sparkling" music videos, which appear in full on the DVD edition.

The first press of the DVD will contain bonus footage of the making of the videos, as well as "BoA TV 2nd Season" as "BoA TV" was shown in her latest album "THE FACE" and was well-liked by the fans.

Koda Kumi's new endorsement

2008-05-05T11:55:00.003+09:00

Since the bad-comment incident, Koda Kumi's reputation has gone sour for a while. Being stripped off several endorsement jobs and not being able to promote her album "Kingdom" and it almost made her cancel her nationwide tour.

Despite of her unable to appear in shows to promote her album, Kingdom still make it to the top of the Oricon Charts. And she has now got back on track to work since mid April to start off with her tour.

This May, she has also been appointed to endorse the Procter & Gamble's Gillette Venus Breeze razor brand. The decision was announced on the Gillette website.

Lucky for Kumi san, her fans has not give up on her so the jobs are back again.

Yuukan Club voted as Best Drama

2008-05-05T11:50:00.003+09:00

The big winner of the Nikkan Sports Drama Grand Prix is Yuukan Club. Having the characters winning both the Best Male Actor award (Akanshi Jin) and Best Supporting Actress award (Yu Kashii), now this drama even won the Best Drama award of last year.

The award was decided by popular vote, 3 of its 5 awards claimed by "Yukan Club," while the other two were taken by "Hanazakari no Kimitachi e".

Johnny demands apology from NTV

2008-05-05T11:43:00.004+09:00

NTV’s Wideshow(ワイドショー) featured a CM-ranking segment and broadcast that Oguri Shun was number 1 in terms of number of CM appearances in Mid April.

However, there is a counting error. Including Kimura Takuya’s appearances with SMAP on CMs, Kimura is obviously the winner of that rank (It was presume Oguri still came in 1st on the “individual appearances in CMs”).

NTV was even made to air the apology. That is such a big whoo-ha, Johnny.

Source: Myfirstgossipblog

BoA Cuts Her Hair SHORT For New Hite Beer CF

2008-05-02T12:46:00.003+09:00

How dare HITE to make our long-hair since debut (13years old) BoA to cut her hair so short??!

BoA was filming her new Hite Beer CF recently. Her new Hite Beer CF will be shown on television from 25th May onwards and you will see a totally new BoA before your eyes with her new short hair, a vast difference from the long hair that fans are accumstomed to.

According to the CF production team, “The beer brand that BoA is endorsing will be undergoing a big-scale transformation so they requested her to appear in a brand new image. After consultation with BoA, we decided on a short hair image for her. BoA herself was shocked after seeing her new hairstyle.”

But SM Entertainment commented that," We have never seen BoA with a shorter haircut than this one. At first, BoA was astonished with her new look but we were more surprised to see BoA transform into a mature and sexy lady."

Let's hope we get used to this real soon.

Some Random Johnny Rumors

2008-05-02T12:26:00.004+09:00

NEWS
Kusano Hironori who used to be with NEWS has left for New York to study for half a year. Nishikido Ryo has said, "Within the year, when Kusano has returned from his studies, he will rejoin NEWS." Maybe it will be soon? SA NA~

The bag stolen from Yamapi during Korea Airport Invasion is now being sold at a high price on the Korean black market. Disgusting Korean Fans.

Yamapi's rumoured girlfriend Abiru Yuu was caught with her ex-boyfriend from DA PUMP previously. It was said the magazine who featured this news seems to have support from the Johnny's. Hence, this new was out to discourage Yamapi from falling deeper for Yuu. Pretty mean huh. The reliability of it is then unknown again.

Loyal Ueto Aya fan, Kato Shigeaki declared that he will make her his within 3 months. If I am Aya chin, I would have feel so disgusted.

Ryo is unhappy filming the Last Friends. It was said he was excited to be able to cast as a "viliant" (abusive guy) but it turned out that his role in it is not as important as he thought it is. So he is unhappy with the scripts and feel it is not necessary for a Johnny to play such a minor role if it does not reflects his acting skills well. His past roles from Attention Please! to 1 litres of Tears are all just part of the running for the female leads, Aya and Erika. Well, Ryo just has not enough luck, I guess.

KAT-TUN
Akanishi Jin was spotted doing some late night shopping at a convenience store in Azabu with a pretty, model-type girl. Ah Huh, who is the lucky one.

Tanaka Koki was spotted at the home of ex-girlfriend Tamaki Nami, it seems they may be back together.

Other Johnny
Ohkura Tadayoshi's girlfriend (no one famous, just an ordinary girl) had a secret rendezvous with Ikuta Toma. How lucky is that girl !!!

Leah endorses Softbank’s mobiles, JAPAN TEXTURE

2008-05-02T12:13:00.003+09:00

Leah Dizon attended the launch of the new Softbank mobiles that introduce new handsets which feature replaceable covers with Japanese traditional texture patterns. What distinguishes the phone from others is the distinctive Japanese designs which are categorized under two headings, “Yuzen” or “Paint”. Yuzen is some form of fabric-dyeing method.

At an event at Omotesando to unveil the handsets, Dizon said, “The covers are stylish and gorgeous. We don’t have these patterns in the U.S. They’re very rare.”

Asked how she has coped with Japanese culture since she came to Japan two years ago, Dizon said, “I can’t eat sashimi yet. But Japanese men are nice. My type is a gentle and strong person.”

Nikkan Sports Drama Grand Prix

2008-05-02T12:02:00.003+09:00

Previously I mentioned about Maki being voted for the Best Actress award for the Nikkan Sports Drama Grand Prix. The results are based on votes by Japanese during late March this year (2008). One award is revealed each day. Now we finally get the whole list of the important winners.

Best Actor: Jin Akashi (Yuukan Club)
Best Actress: Maki Horikita (Hanazakari no Kimitachi e)

Best Supporting Actor: Toma Ikuta (Hanazakari no Kimitachi e)
Best Supporting Actress: Yuu Kashii (Yuukan Club)

It is pretty obvious these two drama were able to capture so many people's hearts that the best actors/actresses and supporting all came out of them.

For Jin, Yuukan was his first role after his short departure from KAT-TUN. Maki's acting skills is confirmed and seen well in the eyes of public already.

Toma did a great job for his role in Hana Kimi and gained much more popularity in his recent act for Honey and Clover. Yuu won this award, this 21-year-old made major headlines when she and actor Joe Odagiri announced their engagement in late December and got married on February 16, which happens to be the birthday for the both of them. Is it a shotgun? Who knows. HAHA.

Oricon Goldern Week

2008-05-02T11:42:00.004+09:00

Surveys conducted by Oricon, results of different surverys as follows:

Which actress they would want to go to an amusement park with?
1) Aya Ueto
2) Yui Aragaki
3) Masami Nagasawa
4) Maki Horikita
5) Aoi Miyazaki

Aya chan can never be away from all the top favorites. Yui is the upcoming long-stayer for these choices as well.

Which actor they would want to go to an amusement park with?
1) Yuusuke Kamiji
2) Hiroshi Tamaki
3) Ryuta Sato
4) Shun Oguri
5) Yuusuke Yamamoto

Yuusuke is now popular for his character in "Quiz! Hexagon II" so that explains his strange appearance at the top position. Hiroshi and Oguri are common choices as usual.

Who would you want to go on a drive with?
For actresses,
1) Yui Aragaki
2) Aya Ueto
3) Haruka Ayase
4) Maki Horikita
5) Masami Nagasawa

Going for a drive with Ayase sounds fun. HAHA. She looks extremely blur type of girl.

For actors,
1) Hiroshi Tamaki
2) Ryuta Sato
3) Shun Oguri
4) Yuuta Hiraoka
5) Kenichi Matsuyama

L is here, that is a strange sight. LOL.

Which celebrity they would want to go on a date with during the Golden Week holiday period?
For actors,
1) Yuusuke Kamiji
2) Masaharu Fukuyama
3) Tsuyoshi Doumoto
4) Hiroshi Tamaki
5) Kouichi Doumoto & Shun Oguri

Again, spot Yuusuke. Fukuyama? Was this survey done on the older group of ladies in Japan? I wonder...

For actresses,
1) Masami Nagasawa
2) Aya Ueto
3) Yui Aragaki
4) YUI (singer)
5) Ai Otsuka & Saki Aibu

YUI is here too. Prehaps because of her recent release of new album.

These days, results can be pretty strange. But still the top posts of the surveys are likely to be to same few. Like Aya, Yui Aragaki for actresses. Oguri, Hiroshi and Ryuta for actors.

Koda Kumi's New Single - Moon Crying

2008-04-30T16:06:00.003+09:00

After the ugly comment that caused many negative reactions to the Japanese, Koda Kumi has resumed working in mid-April.

With the start of her new tour, her new single has been announced as well. The new single song, "Moon Crying" will be used as the theme song for the drama series "Puzzle" which stars Satomi Ishihara as a mystery-solving teacher.

"Moon Crying" was heard in the premiere of the drama on 18th April, Friday. The recording took place last month. The single was scheduled to go on sale in June, and the coupling song will feature Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas.

Let's hope all this news from Kumi can cover up the past bad one and let's move on yea.

Maki Horikita voted as Best Actress

2008-04-30T16:00:00.005+09:00

Nikkan Sports' 11th annual Drama Grand Prix has been revealed. Maki Horikita has won the title of Best Actress. She had done well starring in the highly popular drama adaptation of "Hanazakari no Kimitachi e" last summer.

The award is based on votes and Maki actually lost during the summer edition of the awards when she received less than half as many votes as Haruka Ayase did.

A special episode for "Hana Kimi" was announced in March. Filming has already finished, though Fuji TV has still not yet set a broadcast date.

Apart from this, Maki was also selected to be the guest judge for Asia's largest short film festival.

This year, the Short Shorts Film Festival & ASIA is establishing a new Online category. Horikita be one of the judges for that section. The festival takes place in Harajuku and Tokyo this June.

Being voted as Best Actress and being able to become a judge, this girl is climbing high up.

Yuu Abira's night with her ex-boyfriend

2008-04-30T15:46:00.002+09:00

I know this is late... but just a follow-up on 山P and Yuu Abiru.

Yuu Abiru was seen hanging out with her ex-boyfriend, ISSA from DA PUMP in early-mid April. Both of them were invited to Wada Akiko's birthday party which was held at Wadaya, Wada's restaurant in Nishiazabu. The party started at 7pm and went on till past 3am.

However, at about 2am, Abiru and ISSA left early. An insider states they left at different times (5 minutes gap), and later met up with friends for drinks at a bar in Roppongi. After 5am they left the bar - holding hands and cuddling as they walked, got in a taxi and kissed.

Whether it was a kiss on the lips or a tiny peck on the cheek - unknown. They went to Abiru's place where ISSA left only at 1pm the next day. He ate in a ramen shop and went home after that.

Does it marks an end to 山P and Yuu's relationship? Yuu has a past history of getting cute guys as her boyfriend, we are now wondering what's her charm. Bad girl??

Abiru's friend commented about Abiru's reaction to 山P's almost naked AnAn shoot with an Eurasian model, 山P was all over her. Yuu-chan was shocked and said she did not know about this and they were both very busy and did not see each other. Her friend added that ISSA-kun was there for Yuu-chan and listened to her.

Like wheel of fortune, you never know what's the outcome till the end of the game.
Maybe we can look forward to 山P being single again. ^v^

Yui Aragaki's new single - Make My Day

2008-04-30T15:35:00.007+09:00

Yui Aragaki's new single "Make my day" will be tied with the new drama "81diver"as the theme song. Fuji TV's "81diver" will premieres on May 3.

However, the sad news is that "Make my day" will be scheduled to go on sale 2 months later on July 16. It will come with two other songs - an a cappella version of "Make my day," and a currently untitled song that she wrote the lyrics for.

The single will feature jacket art drawn by Aragaki and will be sold in three editions. One will be CD-only, while the other two are limited first press versions that each come with a DVD. One DVD has the music video for "Make my day," and the other has footage of her concert at the Nippon Budokan in December.

Oricon Survey: Top 20-Years-Old in 2008

2008-04-17T12:24:00.004+09:00

Oricon asked a thousand people to name which 20-year-old celebrity they think will have a breakthrough year in 2008.

Results as follows:
1) Yui Arargaki
2) Maki Horikita
3) Erika Toda
4) Meisa Kuroki
5) Mikako Tabe
6) Ai Fukuhara
7) Miliyah Kato
8) Akiyoshi Nakao

The top three happen to be my favorite stars at the moment. Yui with her raising popularity and Newcomers' awards is definitely a hot-fav. Maki has gained so much fame through her role in Hana Kimi that got her various endorsement jobs and even a album cover in the new compliation CD - First Love though Maki herself has admitted before that she totally cannot sing.

Erika Toda is also one of the most popular young actress in Japan at the moment. Having opportunities to star in so many popular drama along with really cute male idols, like Kame and Yamapi. She also got to cast in the popular movie like Death Note. I believe the peak of her career has just started. =)

Source: Tokyograph

Erika back to London

2008-04-17T12:05:00.005+09:00

After finish filming her CM and celebrating her birthday, Erika has flew back to London on 14 April.

Erika and her boyfriend, Tsuyoshi left Japan at 11:30 in the morning after their short 15 days' stay in Japan. They had reserved a first class lounge in an 'Virgin Atlantic' airplane. Both of them are in white coats, looking pretty compatible.

When noticed by the reporters and questioned how long they will stay in London this time. First time in Japanese, later another attempt in English but all questions were ignored by the couple.

It was said that Erika will continue her studies at a language school in London to improve her English skills.

First Kiss Album

2008-04-14T11:01:00.005+09:00

A compilation album titled "First Kiss" is being released on May 21, containing 15 songs about love by female artists. As the title indicates, the album's theme is to evoke memories of one's first kiss. The collection features songs from the late '90s, selected through a survey of women in their twenties.

The chosen tunes include Hikaru Utada's "First Love," Dreams Come True's "Nante Koi Shitan daro," and Ringo Shiina's "Koko de Kiss Shite."

Currently one of the most popular actress in Japan, Maki Horikita will appear on the album's cover. She was chosen through the survey as the "actress who reminds you of yourself around the time of your first kiss." Perhaps her very innocent and pure image won her the title.

Oricon - Best Looking in Sneakers

2008-04-10T10:58:00.004+09:00

Survey conducted by Oricon on the artists whom look best in sneakers.

Results as follows:

Male Category
1) Takuya Kimura
2) Teppei Koike
3) Tsuyoshi Kusanagi
4) George Tokoro
5) Shun Oguri
6) Toma Ikuta

Female Category
1) Aiko
2) Becky
3) Aya Ueto
4) Kaela Kimura
5) Ai Otsuka
6) Yui Aragaki
7) Maki Horikita
8) Aya Hirayama, Koda Kumi, YUI

It is not surprising to see Kimura topping the charts here as he is the Best Male Jeanist. Surprised to see Uncle George in the charts winning Shun and Toma.

Aiko is known for her casual dressing, sneakers are definitely her style. Becky's popularity is rising after being a constant guest on certain variety shows and her exaggerating drama - Anna No . Surprisingly she won Aya in this chart. Aya Ueto remains as one of the most bubbly character that sneakers just matched her naturally.

Young stars like Ai and Maki definitely look cute in sneakers. Yui seems to be more feminine on her dressing with all the long dresses but perhaps her schoolgirl style makes everyone thinks she look good sneakers.

Happy Birthday Yamapi

2008-04-09T12:03:00.003+09:00

誕生日おめでっと、山P!

It is Yamapi's 23rd Birthday. Hope his career continue to excel and his love life (with whoever the lucky party) can be smooth-sailing.

May all his wishes come true!

Shige's craze towards Ueto Aya

2008-04-09T11:31:00.000+09:00

Ueto Aya is currently filming the upcoming drama Hokaben with NEWS member Kato Shigeaki. Aya will play a lawyer who determines to "rescue the weak". Aya is always known for cheery characters she played, this will be a new challenge for her.

Apparently during filming, it was said that Aya did not enjoy working with Shge. Shige has got a very big crush on Aya. The two has worked previously in the sixth season of “3 Nen B Gumi Kinpachi Sensei,” which ran from 2001 to 2002. Shige even have a collection of stuff on Aya, from CM, Jdrama, pictures to singles. Sounds like crazy fan. HAHA

Shige showed up in some "army look" when he heard Aya likes "wild guys". He even called Aya, "Aya-sama". This guy is really head over heels for her.

Should it be Poor Aya who is quite disturbed by him or Poor Shige who cannot get in Aya's good books? HAHA

Kame drunk, went around kissing girl

2008-04-09T11:25:00.000+09:00

The breakup with Koizumi probably occurred during February this year (2008).

It was said one night in February Kame got dead drunk at a club - his favorite club, which he celebrated his birthday. In this drunken state, he started kissing all over some girl.

Pictures/video of his drunken kissing are spread in the internet. Maybe some netizens will be kind enough to share it. =D

Poor Kame. Hope he can get over Koizumi and be with that sweet dolly girl.

Yamapi & Shirota Yuu Attacked by Korean Fans

2008-04-09T10:40:00.001+09:00

Yamapi, Shirota Yu (Some say it is Yuu's brother, Jun) and his manager went over to Korea for a short holiday. Somehow the news leaked in the internet and there were some fans catching them at Gimpo Airport when they depart on 5th April 2008.

Over 1000 Korean Fans came to see Yamapi. Yampi and the others were caught unprepared and unprotected. This resulted in a very awful encounter.

Yamapi and group were groped and "attacked" by those fans. His shirt was tored, almost like he is being raped. A crazy fan even threw a gift at Yamapi which hitting his head. Poor people.

Yamapi sure know how to behave himself. He did not yell or scold those idiotic Korean Fans, he waved and walked away calmly. He even helped a fan who fell down. Oh my, how kind can Yamapi be. Just before he reached the gate, he nearly had a fall too. Lucky he did not fall.

One of his friends was really mad and yelled at them saying," these crazed Korean fans, are making Korea look extremely bad."

Yamapi was said to have some injuries on his body and his hair was pulled out. He claimed that he is alright but just a little shocked about this encounter.

Korean netizens apologised on this incident, saying how disappointed and embarassed they are with those fans. I believe Yamapi or perhaps the Johnny boys will probably not choose Korea as their vacation destination after this incident.

Toma's phobia of Chicken

2008-04-06T14:45:00.000+09:00

Toma does not take chicken, does that sounds shocking to u. It did surprise us for a while.

The interesting part is, the later was hired to film a commercial for KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken). Imagine him having to munch the chicken on-screen. Initially he was reluctant but for work, he agreed.

When the filming comes, he was asked to take a bite. Once he did so, TEARS rolled out. No no, not that it is awful. He admitted it was awfully delicious so tears came out. LOL

The commercial was aired since last month in Japan. I believe Toma should have start hitting the KFC outlets in Japan by now.

Erika Toda stars in Music Drama

2008-04-06T14:41:00.000+09:00

"Lily," a mudra (music + drama) project based on a song by Monkey Majik, is now the first drama to be sold through iTunes.

The story, written by Yumiko Inoue stars Erika Toda as a woman sending video letters to her former boyfriend (Yoshihiko Hosoda). There are three episodes, totaling close to 20 minutes, that can be bought together as an album for 400 yen.

The episodes are also available on several mobile phone sites.

We can see Erika Toda's demand in little dramas, as well as big screens.

Source: Tokyograph

Maki's collaboration with Beyonce

2008-04-04T14:27:00.000+09:00

Yes, Maki Goto is now currently in LA doing her trainings. But the insider story from Tokyo Sports reported that Maki will be making her singing debut in America.

It will be a special project will be a collaboration with Beyonce. It was said that Maki as Beyonce's fan tried to contact big star, Beyonce in order to be her apprentice. Of course Beyonce did not bother. However, Maki didn't give up and Beyonce finally gave in.

So it was rumored that Maki will make her American debut and return to Japan as "Beyonce's protogee". Her stage name will be M☆ACKKY and her selling point will be some extremely sexy dance.

How true? Who knows. Can someone from LA update us? LOL

BoA - Shine We Are (song) Make into a TV Drama

2008-04-04T13:17:00.000+09:00

In celebration of Avex's 20th founding anniversary on 11 April 2008, 100 short dramas will be filmed based on popular songs sang by the artistis they managed, throughout the years.

BoA's 9th single "Shine We Are" which got the #1 on the Japanese Oricon Chart in May 2003, will be created into a TV drama.

The dramas will be aired starting April 7 on Asahi TV. "Otome" is a two-minute drama that will be broadcast from Monday to Thursday. The dramas will bring together some of AVEX's biggest hit songs with various scenarios. "I Can't Always be a Dreaming Girl" a hit song by Aiga and Nanase, will be broadcast on April 7 as the first part of the drama series. Followed by "Tomorrow Again" by ELT, "Love2000" by Hitomi and "Shine We Are" by BoA.

AVEX will also release a complilation album entitled "20 Years 200 Songs" as part of its celebration projects. AVEX has released a total of 200 million albums including single albums over the past two decades. That's a pretty amazing record considering the singles that have that has topped the ORICON throughout the years.

Let's anticipate to see our favorite songs made into a drama. =D

Kame's boxing pants mystery

2008-04-04T12:46:00.000+09:00

1 Pound Gospel has concluded a very good ending. Some insider story to the drama. It wa ssaid that Kame has bought 5 boxing pants to wear for filming throughout the whole drama,. Does not sound unusual? Shouldn't the crew provide the actors' dressing to them?

So the reason was revealed that Kame's boxing pants went missing several times during filming. HAHA. We suspect it might be some crazy-fan trying to steal his pants or probably sell it at a high price?? And there is only male crew in the studio, no female at al. So it is a sick guy? Previously a variety show 志村どうぶつ園 host visited Kame at when he was filming in the studio.

This episode is quite hilarious.
Catch it if you can ;)

Maybe she is the cuplirt. LOL

As I am here typing and typing, someone out there now may be indulging in a smelly sweaty wet Kame's boxing pants.

Kame's possible new girlfriend?

2008-04-04T12:35:00.000+09:00

Though this is pretty late, I find it very interesting so I am sharing it here.

According to some articles and magazines in Japan during late February 2008, Kame was seen hanging out with a sweet and cute girl around dart-bars. Kame has not told anyone about her being his girlfriend but these two have been seen hanging out quite alot and both are using the same mobile straps. Couple mobile straps??

My views
Is that the reason for his breakup later revealed by Koizumi? Any reason it may be, a cute and sweet girl sounds better than a 42-years-old aunty that can even be his mom. =X

Yamapi & Yuu broke up?!

2008-04-04T11:40:00.000+09:00

From some insiders' information, it was said that Yamapi was forced to breakup with Yuu due to the stress from Johnny's and if he does not do so, his band NEWS will have to be disband?!

The Yamapi & Yuu rumors started out in November 2006. They shared a senior & junior relationship as they were both from Horikishi Gakuin. They were seen dating several times and were wearing couple rings and necklaces. Yamapi wearing Y pendent and Yuu wearing T pendant. Yuu started out as a bikini model and has a pretty wild image. She was aid to have dated several JE guys and one of them is Koki. (I have seen a neoprint of them hugging) =X

Lately Yamapi's new movie Kurosagi has just be shown in early March. There has been rumors saying he has plans to marry Yuu after the movie is shown. Yuu has also been said to be "preparing" to be Mrs Yamashita.

However, due to Yuu's previous bad conducts, Johnny do not approve of this relationship and think Yuu will affect Yamapi's reputation. Yuu Abiru is a good friend of Erika Sawajiri, one of the most hated & loved idol in Japan. HAHA. So contradicting but true. Like her friend, Yuu's conduct has not been very good as well.

Yuu was caught in a group theft during her 3rd grade and last year, Yuu tried to defend Erika when Erika was badly criticised for her poor attitude in the press conference for her movie Closed Note. For defending her friend, Yuu was badly criticised and got into some trouble waters when the media started to remind the public on her theft incident during her 3rd grade. That's pretty cruel huh.

My views
Whether the Yamapi & Yuu relationship is true or not, we would not know. But if it really is true, I do not believe it will affect Yamapi's reputation too much also because he is really rising to be one of Japan's most prominent stars. Anyway, we all wish Yamapi can be blissful too right? ;)

Ai Otsuka - Roketto Suniikaa / One x Time

2008-04-04T02:30:00.000+09:00

Ai chan is currently doing her Love Piece Tour in Japan. That's the reason why we are hearing lesser from her. But the happy news is that her tour will end in 6th May and we can expect Ai chan's new single Roketto Suniikaa/One X Time to be release in 21st May 2008. Finally, after 6 months since her last single Pocket.

Roketto Suniikaa means rocket sneaker if you are thinking what it means.

Roketto Suniikaa is tied up as an ending theme tune to a television program titled "さんまのまんま" (San Mano Manma). The program will shown every Friday on two different television network.

The previous single of Ai chan, Pocket/Ticket was quite disappointing for many fans. She has not been keeping up to her Planetarium songwriting standards. Let's hope this single can be a good one to anticipate for.

NEWS - Summer Time

2008-04-04T02:07:00.000+09:00

NEWS will be singing some summer tunes to you this summer. That's such a LAME tagline.

NEWS' new single Summer Time will be released in May 2008. There will probably be a KAT-TUN vs NEWS single ranking fight in the Oricon Charts that month. HAHA.

This single features refreshing song about summer love. Limited edition includes bonus tracks “Liar” and “Summer Time (Original Karaoke)” plus three-sided, six-page jacket with different jacket artwork from the regular edition. Regular edition includes bonus track “Baby! Be My Baby!” not included on the limited edition, plus two-sided, four-page jacket.

Let's look forward to this single then. =D

Love Paradox & Pure Leah

2008-04-04T01:47:00.001+09:00

Love Paradox

This cover is somehow similar to the cover of BoA's Made In Twenty album and Be With You single. Messy Hair (fringe covering eyes) and casual wear is in trend now for album/single cover? HAHA.

And her PV for Love Paradox, her dressing is so much like Namie Amuro in her Play album. So there have been some degree of copycat-style in this single?

Anyway, Leah's singing still has not improve. Afterall she is still a model. Great face but not cut for singing. Anyway, I know her fanbase is rising. Ganbatte ne Leah chan.

Photobook Pure Leah

Released together with her single Love Paradox on 26th March 2008. I am sure her photobook will sell better than her single. Her photobook has always been a HIT in Japan. Which guy don't like to see Leah anyway. LOL

Leah Dizon design wedding dresses?

2008-04-04T01:25:00.001+09:00

Leah Dizon launched JeweLeah on 1st April. She was said to have "produce" the wedding dresses she wore. (Now is that an April Fool joke? HAHA)

When interviewed, she denied plans of getting married soon. She also explained that her dream guy should be someone smart and nice.

Yamapi retain One Year in University??!

2008-04-04T01:13:00.001+09:00

Yampi was said to be the next Kimura san in the Japan Entertainment Industry. Having so much to cope with acting, singing, CM filming and his movie Kurosagi has just been shown in Japan during early March. The later is rumored to have retain a year in University.

Yamapi is currently doing his Fourth-year studies in Meiji University and is supposed to graduate this year (2008) in April but he will not be graduating. He hinted that a Summer graduation will not be too bad which might indicate him to be graduating later.

Utada Hikaru's Heart Station sets new record

2008-04-03T18:45:00.000+09:00

Utada Hikaru's Heart Station album sold 480,000 copies, ranking at #1 in the Oricon. Breaking Koda Kumi's Kingdom album sales record of 421,000 copies.

Popular Japanese Social Website (similar to Facebook) helps to promotion Hikki's new album as well. This is probably one of the reason that Hikki's songs has became top downloads in digital music and ringtones online.

Entering the 10th year as a singer/songwriter, I am sure the Hikki Legend is not dying off so fast.

Oricon Surveys' Votes

2008-04-03T17:55:00.001+09:00

Most Kissable Lips

1st - Misaki Itou
2nd - Aya Ueto
3rd - Waka Inoue
4th - Haruka Igawa
5th - Haruka Ayase, Nanako Matsushima

As we can see, most are actresses whom endorse cosmetic brands like Shiseido, KOSE, Fashio, etc. No wonder, they are known to have tender kissable lips.

Hime Kaji (Casual Princess)

1st - Shoko Nakagawa
2nd - Kyoko Fukada
3rd - Yuko Ogura
4th - Yuri Ebihara
5th - Ayumi Hamasaki
6th - Erika Sawajiri
7th - Yu Aragaki

Spring Fashion Leaders

1st - Yui Ebihara
2nd - Yui Aragaki
3rd - Miho Kanno, Namie Amuro, Yuu Aoi, Yuko Takeuchi

Yui Ebihara has topped the same survey last year, it is not surprising her spring looks has won many voters who are in their 20s. Yui Aragaki is the teenage sweetheart in this survey.

Cherry Blossom Beauty

1st - Nanako Matsushima
2nd - Yukie Nakama
3rd - Yuko Takeuchi
4th - Mika Nakashima
5th - Sayuri Yoshinaga, Koyuki

Nanako leads this survey, it is quite natural but I wonder what is Yukie doing in this survey. Maybe I have seen too much of her in Gokusen so I seriously cannot associate Cherry Blomssom with her. LOL

Adventure with a celebrity

Male Celebrity
1st - Masaru Hamaguchi
2nd - Hiroshi Tamaki
3rd - Shingo Katori

Female Celebrity
1st - Shoko Nakagawa
2nd - Becky
3rd - Koda Kumi, Chinatsu Wakatsuki
4th - Yui Aragaki

Masaru has very strong survival skills so it is natural he is 1st but Hiroshi and Shingo are like comedians. Japanese women probably like humorous guys' company. HAHA.

Same applies for the female list, Becky and Koda Kumi are such funny people. I would not want Yui on my adventure, she looks so vulnerable and fragile. Will she break a bone while climbing a tree? =X

Source: Tokyograph

NEWS in more RUSS-K Ads

2008-04-03T17:42:00.000+09:00

Surf Brand RUSS-K will continue to faeture NEWS as theri CM characters in their next 2 seasons of commercials.

Clips of them while filming.

FIVE Commercials filmed in Hawaii, has start airing on 5th March.

This time NEWS were not given specified lines but will be ad-libbing the dialogue.

Source: Tokyograph

Hana Kimi SP

2008-04-03T17:34:00.001+09:00

"Hana Kimi", the manga series that was shown last year summer (2007) and was very popular in Japan, is now having a SP confirmed.

This SP will take place half a year after the series' end. With Osaka Gakuen getting ready for an upcoming Valentine's Day event, Sano (Oguri) and Nakatsu (Ikuta) reflect on the final week of their last summer vacation, which falls into the timeline of the original series between episodes 7 and 8. The special also includes a graduation scene and addresses the relationship between Mizuki (Horikita) and Sano.

Filming begins on 19 March 2008, but no broadcast date has been announced yet.

Hana Yori Dango Final

2008-04-03T17:24:00.000+09:00

"Hana Yori Dango Final" is the SP Movie of the popular mange series "Hana Yori Dango". This drama was well-received in Japan, as well as in overseas. It also brought Mao Inoue to fame.

This movie will feature 3 new characters whom will bring more obstacles to the couple, Makino (Mao Inoue) and Domyouji (Jun Matsumoto from Arashi). The 3 characters has been revealed to be Kinya Kitaooji, Naohito Fujiki and Akira from EXILE.

This is Akira's debut to the big screen. He will be cast as a robber. (sounds funny. HAHA) Fujiri will be playing the love rival of Domyouji.

The movie will be shown in 28 June 2008.

Erika Toda's first time being a Lead in romance movie

2008-04-03T17:12:00.000+09:00

One of the most familiar youthful sweetheart in Japan, Erika Toda will be filming romance movie called 'Koikyokusei' by photographer Amiy Mori. It is Erika's first time being a lead in a romance movie. This is also the first dictorial film of Amiy Mori.

The story is based on a short manga called Kimi ni Hikari by Omi Mitsuya. Erika will be acting as Natsuki, a young lady taking care of her austic brother. She meets childhood friend (Kazuki Katou), fall in love and discover he suffers from a terrible illness.

Another sad movie. Acting is not a new thing for Erika already, being involved in so many dramas and movies that became Hits in Japan. I am sure this movie will be a hit too.

Movie will be showing in Winter this year. (2008)

Erika Back in Japan after London Trip

2008-04-03T16:44:00.000+09:00

After being in London for about 3months with boyfriend, Tsuyoshi Takashiro (media creator), our rumoured queen is finally back in Japan.

It was said that Erika's English has improved remarkably after taking English Language courses in UK. She is now able to converse in English fluently. She was seen to be exclaiming "Oh Shit!" when her cosmetics fell out of her bag in the Narita Airport.

Erika will resume work and will be doing a CM photoshoot in this month (April 2008).

Source: Erika Sawajiri's News

Yui Aragaki stars in New Movie 'Fure Fure Shojo'

2008-04-03T16:32:00.000+09:00

After rising to fame on her movie 'Koizora' last year (2007) and grabbed various 'Newcomer' awards, the leading highschool star Yui Aragaki is now in for another highschool romance movie. Her new movie 'Fure Fure Shojo' will be shown in September 2008.

She will be acting as Momo, a shy bookworm who longs for a love like those in a romance novel. She met Oshima, the ace pitcher of the baseball team, and falls in love at the first sight. In order to get near to him, she joins the Ouendan (cheerleading) team. However, the cheerleading team is on the verge of closing with only one member left in it.

While trying to keep the squad alive, she met a legendary cheerleader (Takashi Naito) who show her the true meaning of Ouendan.

Can't wait to see Yui in Ouendan uniform! =D

Maki Goto is updating her blog again!

2008-04-03T16:28:00.000+09:00

After not updating her blog for months and with rumors of her smoking in the public, Maki Goto has once again update us on her current life!

Having her contract deal with Avex, Maki is currently doing some training on vocals and dance in LA.

For more information please visit her blog. <- click here!

Ramee Jewelry by BoA

2008-04-03T16:10:00.000+09:00

After topping her 6th Album - THE FACE in Japan's Oricon Chart, the busy Korea-Japan star is now involved in her first project as an entrepreneur.

With the help of her 2nd brother, Kwon Soon Wook, BoA will release a special edition of jewelry through Ramee named 'Ramee by BoA'. Sadly, it will only be available in Korea. The accesssories she wore in PVs of her songs 'My Name', 'Girls on Top', 'Anyband' and 'Promise u' will also be included.

BoA will be designing her own range of Ramee Jewelry, apart from that, she will be greatly involved in the overall management of the company as well. BoA's brother commented that BoA has always wanna study Design in Art School, she has high interest in fashion and would often check on what sells better in Japan and in France for brands like Dior.

With her plans to enter the US Market as well, we believe it's gonna be another busy year for BoA again.

Kat-tun New Single - Don't U Ever Stop

2008-04-03T15:55:00.000+09:00

Kat-tun's seventh single "Don't U Ever Stop" will be released in May 2008.

This single features a high-paced dance track just perfect for concerts. Regular edition also features original karaoke version of the title track for two songs total.

There will be 3 Limited Editions Versions that will each feature
- Kame and Taguchi's Solo Version
- Jin and Tanaka's Solo Version
- Ueda and Nakamaru's Solo Version

And there is still a regular version.

There will definitely be a hole in Kat-tun Fans' pockets. LOL.

Takeda Tetsuya comment on Kame & Koizumi

2008-04-03T12:43:00.000+09:00

The couple Kamenashi Kazuya and Koizumi Kyoko was said to know each other in a pub. They were first seen to be dating each other in 2006 by the media when Kame was seen driving Koizumi's car to and fro her house on several days and was seen on a holiday to Paris last July (2007). Both parties did not admit on this relationship. However, Kame has officially apologized for this misunderstanding.

In Late February, Koizumi revealed the breakup to close friends in a drinking party. It was not clear since when the couple has split.

Takeda-san who filmed Kinpachi Sensai with Kame, was said to share a teacher-student relationship with him. Takeda-san shared his opinion on the two's relation in a newspaper column. He claimed that he and Kame had a heart-to-heart talk on this relationship before and Kame said
1) he wanted to get married,
2) he wasn’t suited for an acting career
3) he wants to retire by the time he’s 29
4) he wants to open a boutique

Kame said that he is only able to do dramas now because he is young, but that he doesn’t have the talent to be an actor and that acting is not a simple thing. He is not any better than Takeda Tetsuya himself, OR Koizumi Kyoko, his rumoured lover. That’s why he’d rather pursue his first love, fashion, and manage a boutique next time.

In his ending lines, Takeda-san even encouraged Kame on this relationship and said," I know you have been moody recently about this issue, ganbatte and I will support you no matter what."

Later after this article was published and caused a big woo-ha, Tekade-san apologized officially and explained this is a misunderstanding. What the reporter/interveiwer interpreted from his words are very different from what he originally told him. Hence, this article is untrue.

Source: Tokyograph

My Views:
Is the 2K relationship really over? If it is, many fans will be happy, afterall we do feel Kame should not be with a 42-years-old. However, if Kame is really sad about this breakup, I believe the fans will feel sad for him too.

Is the article untrue or not? Tekade-san's claims sound reasonable afterall he does have a teacher-student relationship with Kame but for him to spill the beans just like that, is really not right. Afterall I believed Kame trust him well enough to confide in him and he is telling all these to the reporter. Tekeda-san might just turn out to have a very bad reputation for his reliability.

Anyway, we all do know that Kame does know how to act and sing from all his past achievements, not just because he is young that he is getting all the jobs. So Kame, please continue to work hard. Fans are all behind you!