Rikako Inoue, formerly a member of the idol group Fairies, has taken an unexpected path in her career. Once in the spotlight as a teenage performer who won the Best New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards, she has since reemerged in the entertainment industry under the name Yotsuha Kominato—as an AV actress.

Now 28, Inoue first debuted in 2011 as part of Fairies, a group produced by Rising Production, known for launching artists like Namie Amuro and others. With a focus on global-level performance skills, Fairies quickly made a name for themselves, earning multiple music awards in their debut year. However, the group eventually disbanded in 2020, leaving Inoue at a crossroads.

After stepping away from the entertainment world, she spent two years working in the beauty industry. But something lingered—unfinished business with her fans. Due to the timing of the disbandment during the COVID-19 pandemic, Fairies never held a final concert, and their farewell was reduced to a written statement. That lack of closure weighed on her.

Inoue explained that she had considered various ways to return to the entertainment world but didn’t want to do so half-heartedly. A conversation with someone in the adult film industry sparked an idea. She saw it as a way to make a bold statement and show her full commitment rather than quietly fading into obscurity.

When asked if she consulted her family before making the transition, she admitted she hadn’t. Her mother learned about it through online news and immediately called, asking what had happened. However, rather than reacting with anger, her mother accepted the decision. Now, their conversations are open, with Inoue casually sharing updates on her work.

Her former Fairies bandmates also reacted with surprising support, telling her they always saw her as someone with an unpredictable streak. Some even watched her work and offered encouragement. Meanwhile, reactions from longtime fans have been mixed. Some were shocked, but others expressed gratitude, telling her that while it took time to process, they were happy to have the chance to support her once again.

Reflecting on the journey, Inoue shared that hearing those words made her feel that returning to the public eye was the right choice. With a renewed sense of purpose, she continues to embrace this new chapter on her own terms.

Watch the Hadaka Ikkan! with Yotsuha Kominato below: