Click here to follow Screen Digital on YouTube and stay updated with the latest from the world of cinema.
Popular Japanese actor and former member of the idol boy band M!LK, Mizuki Itagaki, was found dead in Tokyo. The 24-year-old had reportedly went missing three months ago (Since January 2025). His family confirmed the news in a social media post on April 17. Itagaki was one of the rising stars of the industry—someone who had already delivered stellar performances in films like Fake Motion, The Fool’s Kiss, etc., and enjoyed a massive fan following. However, according to reports, he had been struggling mentally in the days leading up to his tragic passing.
“We’re very sorry to share that actor Itagaki Mizuki has passed away due to an unfortunate incident. To all the fans who supported him with so much warmth, and to everyone who worked with him, we’re truly grateful from the bottom of our hearts,” the family said in a statement.
Also read: Kim Soo Hyun’s fans launch global petition as cancellation calls grow: ‘Even if mistakes were made…’
While the reason behind his death is still under wraps, Itagaki had been struggling with health issues since last year, before disappearing from everyone’s life. According to the family, a police search was initiated, and they were recently contacted from Tokyo regarding the possibility of a body being found. “We’re really sorry for not being able to share this news sooner with everyone who had been worried about him,” they said.
Also read: Japanese Anime legend Shigeki Awai, known for One Piece and Naruto, dies at 71
The statement continued, “Mizuki always worked hard with the hope of bringing smiles and joy to everyone through his acting. He had just started taking steps toward returning to work, so it’s heartbreaking that his life ended like this—something even he probably never expected.”
The letter ended by apologising to fans for not being able to give a proper goodbye. “To everyone who supported him during his life, we’re so sorry we couldn’t give you a proper goodbye and have to tell you like this. We hope you’ll continue to remember Mizuki and the work he did with warmth in your hearts.” For the unversed, the actor had parted ways with his agency, Stardust Promotion, last year before officially closing all his fan clubs.
As soon as the news broke, fans began pouring in tributes for the late actor, calling him someone who brought joy into their lives through his performances and humble personality. “It hurts to know that someone who gave us so much joy and energy was struggling behind the scenes. You weren’t just kind, you were also an incredibly talented actor. I wish the world had been kinder to you. Wherever you are now, I hope you’ve found peace,” a fan wrote, adding, “Thank you for everything you gave, even when it was hard.”
“j-movie enthusiasts’ first love, itagaki mizuki, rest in peace,” another user wrote on X. “Itagaki mizuki and his full of spirit personality will always be remembered with love and peace just like his ig username,” a third added. “Absolutely shocked & devastated. He was dealing with mental health issues & was even hospitalized last yr. He was inactive online for months. I dont know how painful his last days were, but I hope now he gets some peace. U will be missed Itagaki Mizuki. U will always be loved.”
The beloved actor, singer, and former model, Itagaki, was born in Tokyo in 2000 and entered the entertainment industry at a very young age. He was signed with Stardust Promotion at just 10 years old when someone spotted potential in him while he was returning home from shopping with his mother. A Fujifabric music video marked his musical debut, and by 2014, he made his acting debut with Dark Gold Ushima-kun Part 2. That same year, he joined the J-pop idol group M!LK.. Just a year later, he landed his big break in acting when he received a critics’ award for Best Actor. Itagaki had a glorious career, leading popular shows like Black Cinderella, In-house Marriage Honey, FAKE MOTION – Just One Wish, Old Rookie, Hiru Season 3, Super Rich, and more.
Click here to follow Screen Digital on YouTube and stay updated with the latest from the world of cinema.