Who is Shigeru Yazaki?
Shigeru Yazaki (矢崎滋) is a former Japanese actor who gained fame in television dramas, films, and commercials. Born on September 2, 1947, in Tokyo, he initially pursued higher education at the University of Tokyo but left to follow his passion for acting. He joined the prestigious Shiki Theatre Company in 1968, marking the beginning of a successful entertainment career.
Over the years, Yazaki became a familiar face in Japanese households, starring in popular TV dramas such as NHK’s Hane Koma and various variety shows. He was also widely recognized for his long-running role as the spokesperson for Shirotsuru Maru, a well-known sake brand
However, by 2014, he had largely stepped away from acting. In a 2020 interview, he confirmed his retirement, citing a decline in acting opportunities and the feeling that he was no longer needed in the industry
Here is a biography table for Shigeru Yazaki (矢崎滋):
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shigeru Yazaki (矢崎 滋) |
| Date of Birth | September 2, 1947 |
| Place of Birth | Tokyo, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Profession | Former Actor |
| Education | Attended the University of Tokyo (left to pursue acting) |
| Career Start | 1968 (Joined Shiki Theatre Company) |
| Notable Works | Hane Koma (NHK Morning Drama), Various TV Dramas & Films, Shirotsuru Maru Sake Commercials |
| Retirement | Officially retired in 2020 |
| Residence | Business hotel in Tohoku, Japan |
| Hobbies | Horse racing |
| Relationship | Rumored to be close with Harumi Miyako (Enka singer) |
| Financial Status | Lives modestly; received a lump sum from commercial work |
Shigeru Yazaki’s Wealth and Income Sources
There are no official records of Yazaki’s net worth, but several factors provide insight into his financial standing.
1. Income from Past Work
As a veteran actor, Yazaki may still receive royalties from reruns of his past work. However, in Japan, secondary usage fees for actors are relatively modest compared to Hollywood standards, making it unlikely that this is a significant source of income for him.
2. Compensation from Shirotsuru Maru Commercials
One of Yazaki’s most financially rewarding roles was his long-term commercial appearance for Shirotsuru Maru’s sake. When his contract ended, he reportedly received a significant lump-sum payment. While the exact amount is unknown, it was described as exceeding a typical retirement package for a Japanese office worker
3. A Modest Lifestyle Without Property Ownership
Unlike many celebrities who accumulate wealth through real estate, Yazaki does not own a house. Instead, he has chosen a minimalist lifestyle, living in a business hotel in the Tohoku region for over 20 years.
Reports suggest that he pays around ¥5,000 per night (discounted from ¥10,000 due to long-term residency), amounting to approximately ¥150,000 per month for lodging
. This frugal living arrangement suggests that Yazaki prioritizes financial stability over material possessions.
Shigeru Yazaki’s Current Life
1. Passion for Horse Racing
Yazaki now resides in Fukushima Prefecture, where he spends much of his time at a nearby horse racing track. Horse racing has been his longtime hobby, and he appears to be enjoying a quiet retirement centered around this passion
2. Relationship with Harumi Miyako
Reports suggest that Yazaki has a close relationship with Harumi Miyako, a famous enka (traditional Japanese music) singer. The two met through work and have maintained a close bond ever since. Some sources claim that Miyako frequently visits Yazaki at his hotel, and there is speculation that they are in a semi-cohabitation relationship
3. Choosing a Simple Life Away from Tokyo
After leaving the entertainment world, Yazaki chose to distance himself from the fast-paced life of Tokyo. His decision to live in a small business hotel, away from the media’s spotlight, reflects a desire for peace and simplicity in his later years.
Conclusion
Shigeru Yazaki was once a well-known actor and commercial star in Japan, but today, he leads a quiet life in Tohoku. While his exact net worth remains undisclosed, his long-running commercial contract and past acting roles likely provided him with financial security. His modest lifestyle, including hotel living and a passion for horse racing, suggests that he values freedom and simplicity over luxury.
Yazaki’s story serves as a unique example of a celebrity who transitioned from fame to a quiet, contented retirement—choosing a path that prioritizes personal happiness over material wealth. See More Business World Class
