Nogizaka46 member Riria Ito (伊藤理々杏) has announced she will graduate from the group, with the news confirmed on October 17. Ito will complete her activities with the group’s 43rd single, “Kimi Loss,” set for release on December 2, before stepping away.
Formed in 2011 as a sister group positioned as a rival to AKB48, Nogizaka46 has grown into one of Japan’s leading idol groups, scoring back-to-back Japan Record Award wins in 2017 and 2018 and releasing its fifth original album, “My Respect,” in January 2026.
Ito shared the news in a blog post titled “This Place I Loved,” telling fans that Nogizaka46 had been “the most comfortable, wonderful place in the world” for her, which is precisely why she had been reluctant to leave. She explained that watching senior members, peers, and juniors graduate over the years gradually gave rise to a new feeling: wanting to see the group she loved from the outside. That realization, she said, led her to the decision.
In the post, Ito also expressed deep gratitude toward her fellow members, writing that she wished to be reborn as a member of Nogizaka46 again in another life just to meet them all once more. She confirmed that her graduation is planned to take place sometime within 2026, with a specific date to be announced later. Following her departure, Rena Iwamoto will become the only remaining member of Nogizaka46’s third generation.
Who is Riria Ito?
Riria Ito joined Nogizaka46 in 2016 as part of the group’s third generation. Beyond her idol activities, she has built a notable presence on stage, appearing in various theater productions and musicals alongside her group work. Following her graduation, Ito says she plans to continue her entertainment career with a focus on acting, taking on new challenges going forward.
Author’s Comment
Another graduation, another round of fans either sobbing into their penlights or already drafting conspiracy theories about the ‘real’ reason — that’s just the Nogizaka46 life cycle at this point. But credit where it’s due: wanting to watch your favorite group from the outside, as a fan again, might be the most honest exit reason an idol has given in years. No scandal, no feud, just someone who grew up and said so. Pivoting into acting is the time-honored idol exit strategy, and with her stage background, it should suit her better than most. Godspeed, Riria — may your next bow come with considerably less choreography.
