Hironori Kusano, Japanese singer and actor

Hironori Kusano: A Prominent Japanese Singer and Former Member of J-Pop Group NEWS

Hironori Kusano (草野 博紀, Kusano Hironori), born on February 15, 1988, is a distinguished Japanese singer renowned for his significant tenure as an original member of the hugely popular J-pop boy band, NEWS. His journey into the highly competitive Japanese entertainment industry commenced in February 2001 when he officially joined Johnny's Entertainment, Inc., an iconic and highly influential talent agency (now known as SMILE-UP.) celebrated for its unparalleled success in cultivating male idols who achieve widespread fame across Asia in music, television, and film.

The Rise and Impact of J-Pop Phenomenon NEWS

Kusano was instrumental in the early formation of NEWS, being selected as one of the original eight members when the group was officially established in September 2003. The group's unique name, an acronym derived from the four cardinal directions (North, East, West, South), boldly symbolized their ambition to disseminate their music and influence across the globe. Their high-profile debut was marked by the release of their first major single, "NEWS Nippon," which served as the official theme song for the FIVB World Cup Volleyball 2003. This strategic launch provided them with immediate national exposure, quickly cementing their status as a leading act in the vibrant J-pop scene. With their energetic performances, charismatic appeal, and a string of catchy hits, NEWS consistently topped music charts and cultivated a dedicated and extensive fan base throughout Japan and beyond.

Hironori Kusano's Departure from NEWS and Johnny's Entertainment

Despite the immense success and popularity Hironori Kusano achieved during his initial years with NEWS, his association with the group concluded in 2007. In December 2006, Johnny's Entertainment, Inc. announced Kusano's indefinite suspension from all activities with NEWS. This decision followed reports of his involvement in underage drinking, a serious breach of the stringent codes of conduct and public image expectations placed upon idols, particularly those managed by the highly conservative Johnny's agency. After a period of careful consideration and evaluation, his official withdrawal from NEWS was confirmed in January 2007. Although he maintained a brief affiliation with Johnny's Jr. for a short period thereafter, Kusano ultimately departed from the agency entirely, charting a new course for his career outside the traditional idol framework.

The Enduring Legacy of Johnny's Entertainment (SMILE-UP.)

Johnny's Entertainment, the powerhouse agency that nurtured Kusano's early career, has historically been the preeminent force in Japan's male idol industry. Renowned for its rigorous artist development programs and comprehensive management, the agency has been pivotal in shaping the careers of countless successful groups and solo artists, establishing itself as a profound cultural institution in Japan. While the agency recently underwent a significant restructuring, emerging as SMILE-UP., its legacy of discovering and producing top-tier talent, including Hironori Kusano and the other members of NEWS, remains an undeniable part of Japanese entertainment history.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hironori Kusano and NEWS

What is Hironori Kusano's date of birth?

Hironori Kusano was born on February 15, 1988.

When did Hironori Kusano join Johnny's Entertainment?

He joined Johnny's Entertainment, Inc. in February 2001, beginning his training as a Johnny's Jr. before becoming a founding member of NEWS.

Why did Hironori Kusano leave the J-pop group NEWS?

Hironori Kusano was suspended from NEWS in December 2006 due to allegations of underage drinking. He officially withdrew from the group in January 2007, following a decision by his agency, Johnny's Entertainment.

What is Johnny's Entertainment, Inc.?

Johnny's Entertainment, Inc., now known as SMILE-UP., is a highly influential Japanese talent agency that has dominated the male idol industry in Japan for decades, launching the careers of numerous iconic J-pop groups and solo artists.

What does the group name NEWS signify?

The name NEWS is an acronym for the four cardinal directions: North, East, West, and South, symbolizing the group's aspiration to spread their music and influence globally.