Japanese actor Mizuki Itagaki found dead at 24, family confirms

Mizuki Itagaki dead at 24

Mizuki Itagaki, a well-known Japanese actor and former member of M!LK, was tragically discovered dead in Tokyo, according to a social media statement released by his family on April 17. A police search was initiated shortly after the 24-year-old's disappearance, which was reported to have occurred in January 2025.

Itagaki, who was once regarded as one of Japan's most promising young actors, received praise from critics for his roles in films like The Fool's Kiss and Fake Motion. Because of his modest demeanour and on-screen persona, he had also amassed a devoted fan base. But in the months before his passing, the actor reportedly struggled with mental health issues.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of actor Mizuki Itagaki due to an unfortunate incident,” the family’s statement read. “To all the fans who supported him and to everyone who worked with him, we express our deepest gratitude.” The family added that they were recently contacted by Tokyo police after the possible discovery of a body, bringing devastating closure to the months-long search.

Though the exact cause of death remains undisclosed, the family revealed that Itagaki had been struggling with health issues since last year. “He had just started taking small steps towards returning to work,” they said. “It’s heartbreaking that his life ended this way — something even he may not have foreseen.”

The statement ended with an apology to fans for the sudden announcement. “We’re truly sorry we couldn’t give you a proper goodbye. We hope you’ll remember Mizuki and the happiness he brought.”

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Itagaki was scouted by Stardust Promotion and started his career at the age of ten. He was born in Tokyo in 2000. He made his acting debut in Dark Gold Ushima-kun Part 2 in 2014 after making his debut in a Fujifabric music video. He later starred in a number of popular dramas, such as In-house Marriage Honey, Super Rich, Old Rookie, and Black Cinderella. Since then, social media has been inundated with tributes, honouring his legacy and lamenting his premature passing.