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Keita Machida to Return to Acting After Year-Long Hiatus, Reportedly Revisiting BL and Nude Bathing Themes

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified New plan
  • Japanese actor Keita Machida announced his return to the entertainment industry after a nearly year-long hiatus following a scandal.
  • He plans to resume his acting career with stage plays and a new TV drama that will feature him in hot springs, reminiscent of his popular BL series.
  • Machida had previously withdrawn from film roles to avoid causing trouble for production teams during his break.

Japanese actor Keita Machida is set to make a comeback after a year-long absence from the entertainment industry, stemming from a scandal involving alleged infidelity with actress Mei Nagano.

Machida's hiatus began after the rumors surfaced, leading him to step away from acting to avoid inconveniencing production teams. Now, he is ready to return, starting with a stage play titled "Mama, This is a Love Song" in Tokyo. His comeback will also include a new television drama scheduled for January next year.

I absolutely will not retire from the entertainment industry.

โ€” Mei NaganoMei Nagano's statement at a fan event, following rumors of an affair with Keita Machida.

The upcoming drama will see Machida exploring Japan's hot springs with a male co-star, a theme that echoes his breakout role in the popular BL (Boys' Love) series "Uncle's Love." The show is expected to feature extensive onsen (hot spring) scenes, potentially reviving the nude bathing elements that were part of his earlier success.

During his time off, Machida admitted to experiencing low points and even considering leaving the industry. However, he cited the support of his fans and his enduring passion for acting as reasons to bravely step back into the spotlight. He previously appeared on a YouTube program in May, stating that an actor needs roles to perform, and he had none at that time.

An actor's job is to act when there are roles.

โ€” Keita MachidaMachida's statement on a YouTube program in May, explaining his situation during his hiatus.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.