Beloved 'Taiso Oneesan' Azuki Akimoto Departs NHK's 'Okaasan to Issho' After Seven Years, Eliciting Emotional Fan Reactions

Azuki Akimoto, affectionately known as "Azuki Oneesan" (Big Sister Azuki), who served as the first "Taiso Oneesan" (exercise big sister) for seven years on NHK's popular children's program "Okaasan to Issho," has announced her departure from the show this spring. This news has sparked an outpouring of farewell messages from fans on social media.

Azuki Oneesan, who began her role as Taiso Oneesan in April 2019, is scheduled to make her final appearance on March 28th. Following her departure, Kazumu Sakumoto, who serves as the first "Odori no Oniisan" (dance big brother), will continue to be a prominent figure on the show starting March 30th, taking on an expanded role that includes leading physical activities.

In response to this graduation announcement, social media has been flooded with comments like "Too sad" and "Nothing but gratitude." Many messages of thanks have poured in from parents raising young children, expressing sentiments such as, "Her morning smiles and exercises brought so much comfort and energy" and "Thank you so very much!"

Many viewers were particularly touched by her characteristic vibrant smile and full-energy performances, especially when Kazumu Oniisan was still getting used to his role, or when Makoto Oniisan and Kazumu Oniisan were unable to participate in recordings due to illness or injury. Comments like, "It's unforgettable how she'd put on a full-smile, full-power performance during concerts, doing the exercises with extra energy to cover for Makoto and Kazumu Oniisan when they were unwell or injured," reflect the deep impression she left.

Furthermore, there were prominent posts expressing nostalgia for Azuki Oneesan's activities in segments like "Karada☆Dandan" and "Otamagician," as well as heartfelt messages from parents who had watched her alongside their children's growth, saying things like, "She's been a part of our lives since our child was born" and "Thank you for seven years of hard work."

Some comments even expressed surprise and shock at the unexpected nature of the announcement, such as, "I thought Yuichiro Oniisan was leaving, but it was Azuki Oneesan!" Similar to the departure of Atsuko Oneesan, many fans shed tears over this announcement, which speaks volumes about her immense popularity and contributions.

For seven years, Azuki Oneesan has consistently brought smiles and energy to children and their families. Her bright smile and energetic exercises brightened the mornings of countless households and made her a beloved, special presence. Fans are now offering their support for Azuki Oneesan's new endeavors while reiterating their gratitude for her past achievements.

The context

"Okaasan to Issho" (With Mother) is a hugely popular and long-running (since 1959) educational children's television program broadcast by NHK, Japan's public broadcaster. It's a staple in Japanese households with young children, featuring songs, dances, puppet shows, and exercise segments designed for preschoolers. The adult presenters on the show are affectionately known as "Oneesan" (big sister) and "Oniisan" (big brother), and they become familiar and beloved figures for generations of children and their parents. The "Taiso Oneesan" (exercise big sister) is a specific role dedicated to leading the physical activity segment, making her a crucial part of children's daily routines and development. Her departure after seven years marks a significant emotional event for many families who have grown up with her on screen.