Johnny & Associates' Johnny Kitagawa passes away at 87

We regret to inform that Johnny Kitagawa, president of popular talent agency Johnny & Associates, passed away due to a ruptured cerebral aneurysm this past week on July 9. He was 87 years old.

The surprising passing of Kitagawa occurred weeks after he collapsed and was rushed to the hospital on June 18. While the cause of the incident is unclear, several entertainers he produced visited him during his hospitalization.

Spawning numerous groups through his agency, Kitagawa became a big player and held a foothold in the industry through the success of top male idol groups such as Arashi, SMAP, and Kinki Kids. One of Kitagawa’s final wishes was for the world to be peaceful and full of hope so that people could enjoy entertainment.

No successor to Kitagawa has been named as of now, but several speculators announced that current president of Johnny’s Island Inc. Hideaki Takizawa will be the forerunner for the position.

We at Ongaku to You send our thoughts and prayers to Kitagawa’s family and loved ones in this trying time.