Sayumi Michishige announces retirement from showbiz
22 Jan - Former Morning Musume's Sayumi Michishige recently revealed that she has actually been diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and that she will be retiring from the entertainment industry.
In a post announcing her departure published on social media, Sayumi said that she had been experiencing anxiety and fear for the past few years whenever she was alone and off the stage, which had become a great struggle for her.
"At the end of [2023], I was diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder, and honestly, there was a part of me that felt a sense of relief. I then began to limit certain activities while continuing my work. But now, with the frustration of not being able to resume some of those limited activities, I find myself facing more and more moments where I wonder if some of the work I used to do is now beyond my reach," she wrote.
Sayumi said that continuing her activities has become more difficult because of it and that she finally came to the decision to quit showbiz on the 22nd anniversary of her debut.
"With about six months remaining until the summer concert tour, I will do my best to show my gratitude and give everything I can. And, though it may be selfish, I want to laugh a lot and enjoy the time with my beloved fans. Until the very end, I ask for your continued support," she added.
