On September 2, the Takarazuka Revue Company, based in Takarazuka City, announced that Toa Serika, the renowned top male star of the Cosmos Troupe, will leave the company in April 2025. The announcement follows a turbulent period for the troupe, which has been under scrutiny since the death of a troupe member in late September 2023. The company acknowledged that the death was linked to excessive work and power harassment by senior members, offering an apology to the deceased’s family. Despite this, no disciplinary measures were implemented, which has fueled ongoing speculation about the future of the troupe’s top star.
Serika, born in Kobe City and a member of the 93rd class of the Takarazuka Revue in 2007, started her career in the Star Troupe. After serving in the Flower Troupe, she joined the Cosmos Troupe in 2017. She was promoted to the role of top star in June 2011, succeeding Masukaze Suzuho. Her departure marks a significant shift for the troupe, which has been dealing with the fallout from the recent tragedy.
Following the death of the troupe member, Serika’s debut performance, held at the Takarazuka Grand Theater, was abruptly canceled two days after its start. The Cosmos Troupe resumed performances in June this year with a new production after a nine-month hiatus. A press conference addressing Serika’s departure is scheduled to take place in Osaka City on September 3.
The Takarazuka Revue Company has not provided additional details about the reasons behind Serika’s decision to leave or any potential changes in the troupe’s management structure moving forward.