The first day (8/22/2013) of AKB48′s Tokyo Dome concert has already proven a shocker. After the performance of Koisuru Fortune Cookie a tearful Minami Takahashi took the stage solemnly to announce the graduation of Yasushi Akimoto. The girls present on stage were shocked, a few burst into tears, and Rena Matsui fainted. As a tearful but confident Yasushi Akimoto took the stage, he thanked Takahashi for her years of service and delivered the following speech:
“
I, Yasushi Akimoto, am a 55 year old man and have been doing this since I was in High School. This was my life. It was a big decision. And I will make a second important decision. I am going to graduate.
I have caused some troubles because of my mood swings, but thanks for everyone’s help, I am here today. To be in Tokyo Dome was a dream since I was 14.
Now this dream has come true, at 55 years of age, I have to work hard towards my next dream.
I have worked hard for the past 41 years. I have to move onto my next dream at the age of 55. I am anxious and worried because I don’t know what will happen. But for the kouhai, I have to take the first step towards this. I leave the future of AKB48 in Minami Takahashi-sans capable hands. Thank you.”
No details have yet been decided on Akimoto’s formal graduation date.
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