As reported on Natalie, it was announced on Momoiro Clover Z’s official website that Momoka Ariyasu is to graduate from the idol group.

Momoka took to her ameblo blog where she apologised for the sudden news, explaining that she had been in the entertainment industry since childhood. “I have been put at a distance from the world of 22 years since my time as a child actor,” she said. “The feeling of wanting to return to life as a normal girl became stronger, and I accepted this selfishness.”

Momoka has been a part of Momoiro Clover Z for eight years. Looking back at her time with the group, she said, “My thoughts flood like a revolving lantern. I get feelings that it was such a long time, but also happened in the blink of an eye. I was able to live a happy life as an idol. I was blessed with Reni, Kanako, Shiori, Aarin [Ayaka], amazing members that money can’t buy. I was blessed with Stardust and King Records, and an excellent and enthusiastic staff. I was blessed with many beautiful songs. And above all, no matter what, I have fans that supported me with all their hearts.”

She has no firm plans for what she intends to do in the future, saying, “I haven’t decided anything definite. But on the other hand, I think I’d like to try living a life with days of no schedule or plans. First, I’ll live a well-regulated life, and will live my days slowly and peacefully. I want to try, slowly but surely, all the normal things I couldn’t do these 22 years.”

Momoka joined the idol group Momoiro Clover Z in July 2009. She released her first solo mini album, Kokoro no Senritsu ♪ feel a heartbeat, in July 2016, and a full solo album, Kokoro no Oto in October 2017.

Momoka will depart from the group after performing a live graduation event on 21 January 2018 at Makuhari Messe. Their label Evil Line Records (owned by King Records) reported that Momoiro Clover Z will continue to perform as a group of four members.

Translation by @nemurenatta.

Originally published on MyM Buzz on 15 January 2018.