Asako Ito’s Heartbreaking Dilemma: Choosing Career Over Marriage in a 10-Year Romance
In the fast-paced world of Japanese entertainment, where personal lives often take a backseat to professional ambitions, comedian Asako Ito recently opened up about one of the toughest decisions she’s ever made. At 55, Ito is a beloved figure in Japan, known for her sharp wit, self-deprecating humor, and appearances on variety shows. But behind the laughter lies a story of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. On a recent episode of TBS’s “A-Studio+” aired on September 26, 2025, Ito shared the details of her breakup with a long-term boyfriend after he proposed marriage. It’s a tale that resonates with many, especially women navigating the tricky balance between career and relationships in a society that still grapples with traditional expectations.
(TOKYO-SPORTS)
For those unfamiliar, Asako Ito rose to fame in the early 2000s as part of the comedy duo “Takahashi” before going solo. Her style—bold, relatable, and often poking fun at her own single status—has endeared her to audiences across Japan. But during the show, hosted by Kis-My-Ft2’s Taiyo Fujigaya, Ito revealed a more vulnerable side. Prompted by insights from her close friend and fellow comedian Kanning Takeyama, she recounted dating a man for about 10 years until she was 39. When Fujigaya asked if marriage ever came up, Ito nodded emphatically: “It did, it did. It was a really long relationship—around 10 years.”
The proposal didn’t lead to a fairy-tale ending, though. Ito explained that at the time, around age 38, her career was just starting to take shape. She wasn’t landing TV gigs yet, but she was pouring her energy into creating comedy sketches, performing live shows, and hustling in the competitive world of Japanese showbiz. “It’s not like I said ‘not now’ exactly, but I just felt like it wasn’t the right time,” she said. “I had no TV work locked in, nothing was happening yet, but inside, I knew I couldn’t think about anything else. I didn’t have the mental space for it.” Her boyfriend’s response? A blunt “Well, then it’s over.” And just like that, the relationship ended.
Ito later confided in Takeyama during casual drinks, wondering if she’d made the right call. Takeyama, ever the straight-talker, reportedly told her she’s “all-around talented but hopeless at love,” which drew a playful “You idiot! What are you saying?” from Ito on the show, masking her embarrassment with humor. It’s moments like these that highlight Ito’s charm—she turns personal pain into relatable comedy, but the story underscores a deeper truth about sacrifice.
In Japan, where societal pressures often push women toward marriage and family by their late 20s or early 30s, Ito’s choice stands out. The country’s declining birth rate and aging population have amplified discussions about work-life balance, with many women delaying or forgoing marriage to focus on careers. According to recent surveys, more Japanese women in their 30s and 40s are prioritizing professional growth over traditional milestones, echoing Ito’s experience. Entertainment industry insiders note that for female comedians, building a sustainable career can be especially grueling, with long hours and unpredictable schedules leaving little room for personal life. Ito’s story isn’t unique; it mirrors those of other public figures who’ve chosen ambition over romance, sparking conversations about gender roles and fulfillment.
Reactions from Japanese netizens have been mixed, reflecting the cultural divide. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), some users expressed sympathy and admiration for her resolve. One emotional post read, “Seeing Asako choose her dreams over marriage made me cry—it’s so inspiring for women chasing their passions.” Others were surprised she even had such a long-term partner, with comments like, “I can’t believe Asako had someone serious about marriage… she’s always seemed so independent!” However, not all feedback was positive. Critics labeled her decision as shortsighted, with one user bluntly stating, “What an idiot—there’s no ‘not now’ for marriage; you do it when you can.” Another pondered deeper incompatibilities, suggesting, “Even if hearts align, other mismatches can end things.” These varied responses highlight Japan’s evolving views: while younger generations applaud personal autonomy, traditional mindsets still question women who prioritize careers.
Expanding on this, Ito’s anecdote serves as a reminder of the universal struggle between love and ambition. In an international context, similar stories abound—think of Hollywood stars like Oprah Winfrey, who famously chose her empire over marriage, or global icons who’ve spoken about the trade-offs. For women in creative fields, the pressure is amplified; success often demands undivided attention in the early years. Yet, Ito’s life post-breakup proves it was the right path for her. Now a staple on Japanese TV, she’s expanded into acting, hosting, and even music parodies, all while maintaining her signature humor. She hasn’t ruled out love entirely, but her focus remains on what brings her joy.
This narrative also touches on mental health and self-awareness. Ito’s intuition that she “couldn’t think about anything else” speaks to the importance of being honest with oneself. In a culture where harmony and conformity are valued, admitting such feelings takes courage. For an international audience, it’s a culturally sensitive glimpse into Japanese life, where individualism is increasingly clashing with collectivist norms. Stories like hers encourage reflection: Is there a “right time” for love, or does it depend on personal readiness?
To wrap up, Asako Ito’s revelation isn’t just celebrity gossip—it’s a poignant exploration of life’s crossroads. At 55, she’s thriving, proving that choosing yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Whether you’re in Tokyo or Toronto, her story invites us to celebrate the paths we forge, even if they lead away from convention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Asako Ito?
Asako Ito is a 55-year-old Japanese comedian and TV personality known for her energetic performances and relatable humor. She gained popularity through variety shows and has been a fixture in Japanese entertainment for over two decades.
2. Why did Asako Ito break up with her boyfriend after his proposal?
Ito felt it wasn’t the right time, as she was deeply focused on building her comedy career. With no stable TV work yet, she prioritized her professional dreams over marriage, leading to the relationship’s end.
3. How have Japanese people reacted to Asako Ito’s story?
Reactions vary: some admire her independence and cry over the emotional choice, while others criticize it as a missed opportunity, reflecting Japan’s mix of traditional and modern views on marriage and careers.
4. What does this say about marriage pressures in Japan?
It highlights the ongoing tension for women between career ambitions and societal expectations to marry young. With more women delaying marriage, stories like Ito’s spark discussions on gender equality and personal fulfillment.
