In a shocking turn of events, renowned Japanese kabuki actor Ichikawa Ennosuke, 47, has been arrested once again. This time, he faces charges related to his father’s death, which occurred in mid-May. Previously, Ennosuke was already under suspicion for assisting his mother’s suicide. Authorities are actively delving into the matter to unravel the truth behind these tragic events.
The Tragic Discovery at the Family Home
On May 18, Ennosuke, born Takahiko Kinoshi, was found unconscious alongside his parents at their residence in Tokyo. Tragically, his mother, Nobuko, aged 75, and his father, Hiroyuki, aged 76, a renowned kabuki actor known as Ichikawa Danshiro, were later pronounced dead. Authorities attributed their deaths to a drug overdose, indicating a likely family suicide pact. This revelation has deeply shocked the nation.
Ennosuke’s Alleged Involvement
Authorities suspect that Ennosuke played a role in his father’s demise. According to police reports, he provided his father with sleeping medication from the afternoon of May 17 until the following morning, leading to his tragic passing on May 18. Ennosuke has confessed to the allegation, acknowledging his involvement in the incident.
The Disturbing Connection to a Magazine Report
Coinciding with the distressing events, a weekly magazine published an exposé detailing Ennosuke’s alleged history of bullying and sexual abuse within his theater collective. It is believed that after learning about the impending release of the report, Ennosuke informed his parents, leading to their joint decision to end their lives and “move on to the next world.”
Ennosuke’s Condition and Discovery
Ennosuke’s manager discovered the harrowing scene in the family home’s second-floor living room around 10:15 a.m. on May 18. Ennosuke, though conscious, appeared disoriented and was promptly transported to the hospital for further treatment. He remained hospitalized until his initial arrest on June 27, shedding light on the gravity of the situation.
Ennosuke’s Accomplishments and Impact in the Kabuki World
Prior to this tragedy, Ennosuke enjoyed a stellar career spanning over four decades, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the world of kabuki. Notably, he has graced both the stage and screen, captivating audiences with his exceptional performances.
Pushing the Boundaries of Kabuki
Ennosuke’s contributions extend beyond traditional kabuki performances. He played a significant role in the “Super Kabuki” plays, a groundbreaking genre that combines the essence of traditional kabuki with modern theatrical effects and music. Notably, his portrayal of a character from the renowned manga series “One Piece” garnered immense attention and acclaim.
Future Endeavors in the Works
Following the resounding success of the “Super Kabuki” adaptation of “One Piece,” Ennosuke made an exciting announcement. He revealed his involvement in an upcoming production based on the wildly popular “Demon Slayer” series, slated for release in 2024. Fans eagerly await his next performance, hopeful for another unforgettable display of his talent.
In conclusion, the tragic events surrounding the arrest of Ichikawa Ennosuke and the loss of his parents have sent shockwaves through the nation. The ongoing investigation aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding these heartbreaking incidents. Despite this dark chapter, Ennosuke’s impact on the world of kabuki remains undeniable, and fans eagerly anticipate his future endeavors.
© KYODO
