EXILE's Takahiro Recounts Childhood Dream of Becoming a Barber

Key facts

• Takahiro, 41, appeared on TOKYO FM's "Sakamo Miwa no Dear Friends" on May 7.
• He discussed his mother's profession as a hairdresser.
• Takahiro initially believed he would become a hairdresser.
• He recalled cutting his mother's hair at home for the first time during high school.
• His sister is also a professional hairdresser.
• Takahiro joined the group EXILE in 2006 at age 21.
• He married actress Emi Takei in September 2017.
• The couple has three daughters, born in March 2018, March 2022, and February 2024.

A Glimpse into Early Ambitions

Takahiro, the 41-year-old artist known for his role in the group EXILE, offered a rare personal reflection during his May 7 appearance on TOKYO FM's "Sakamo Miwa no Dear Friends." The conversation, prompted by a discussion about Mother's Day and his mother's busy schedule as a hairdresser, delved into Takahiro's childhood and his own early career aspirations. He revealed that growing up, he had no specific dreams beyond the expectation that he would follow in his mother's footsteps. "I spent my time thinking I would become a hairdresser," Takahiro stated, explaining that he assumed a life path involving attending junior high, high school, and then vocational school for hairdressing was predetermined. This deeply ingrained belief in his future profession was challenged by a poignant moment during his high school graduation. His mother requested he cut her hair at home as a commemorative act, a task he undertook with a surprising emotional undercurrent.

The Emotional Haircut

The experience of cutting his mother's hair for the first time was charged with a peculiar mix of shyness and sentimentality. Takahiro recounted how his mother was moved to tears during the haircut, a reaction that embarrassed him. "I didn't want to be seen cutting her hair. I was so embarrassed," he admitted. To shield himself from observation, he asked his mother to wear an eye mask. "But tears were streaming down from under that eye mask. I thought, 'How embarrassing!'" This vivid memory underscores the profound impact his mother's profession had on his formative years and his subsequent respect for those in the beauty industry.

A Legacy of Hairdressing

Takahiro's connection to the hairdressing world extends beyond his childhood. He explicitly stated that he maintains a deep respect for hairdressers, particularly those who have dedicated many years to the craft. "People who have worked as hairdressers for a long time, I have respect for them somewhere, I feel a sense of reverence," he shared. This sentiment is further exemplified by his sister, who is also actively pursuing a career as a hairdresser, a fact Takahiro mentioned with evident pride. His own journey into music began later. Takahiro joined EXILE in 2006 at the age of 21, having previously worked as a professional hairdresser himself before his music career took off.

Personal Life and Family

Beyond his professional life and reflections on his past, Takahiro's personal life has also been a subject of public interest. He married actress Emi Takei in September 2017, marking a significant milestone in his private affairs. The couple has since welcomed three daughters. Their first child, a daughter, was born in March 2018. A second daughter arrived in March 2022, followed by the birth of their third daughter in February of the current year. These personal details offer a fuller picture of Takahiro's life, balancing his public persona as a musician with his roles as a husband and father.

Upcoming Festival Appearance

In addition to his radio interview, Takahiro is scheduled to perform at the "Nagaoka Komehyakko Fes" (Rice Hundred俵 Festival) on May 23 and 24. This event, organized by the Komehyakko Fes Limited Liability Business Association, will be held at the National Echigo Hillside Park in Nagaoka City. The festival promises a diverse range of attractions, including local gourmet food stalls and a fireworks display to conclude the event. A dedicated kids' park will also be available for younger attendees. Other artists slated to perform include Kiyoshi Hikawa, Yarlenz, and the fourth generation Sui-chan, among many others. The full lineup now stands at 19 artists, with recent additions such as SHISHAMO, DXTEEN, and Char.

The bottom line

• Takahiro revealed his childhood expectation of becoming a hairdresser.
• He shared an emotional memory of cutting his mother's hair at home.
• He expressed deep respect for professional hairdressers.
• Takahiro joined EXILE at age 21 after working as a hairdresser.
• He is married to actress Emi Takei and they have three daughters.
• Takahiro is scheduled to perform at the Nagaoka Komehyakko Fes in late May.