Runa Hirata, an eight-year-old trainee with Japanese idol group DIANNA Project, has died, just days after performing in front of fans.
Hirata died at around 4:00 a.m. on September 25 after developing myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle linked to an influenza infection, according to the group.
The young trainee’s final performance was held on September 20, just five days before her death.
Following the performance, a message was shared with fans through Hirata’s account.
“Thank you for today too, I appreciate it. It was so much fun,” the message read.
DIANNA Project confirms Runa Hirata’s death
DIANNA Project confirmed Hirata’s death in a statement published on its website.
The eight-year-old had been training with the group’s Nagoya-based team and had been pursuing her dream of becoming an idol.
“We sincerely thank you for your continued support of the DIANNA Project. We regret to inform you that Runa Hirata, a trainee with the DIANNA Project in Nagoya, has passed away due to myocarditis resulting from influenza,” the agency said.
Her wake and funeral were held privately, with only close family members attending in accordance with her family’s wishes.
The agency expressed its gratitude to those who had supported Hirata during her time with the group.
“We would like to express our deepest and heartfelt gratitude to all the fans who have supported Runa Hirata, as well as to everyone involved who has supported her throughout her activities,” the statement added.
Agency asks Runa Hirata fans to respect family‘s privacy
Following the announcement, DIANNA Project urged fans and the public to respect Hirata’s family as they mourn her death.
“Out of consideration for the feelings of her bereaved family, we respectfully ask that you refrain from making individual inquiries or requests for interviews regarding this matter, as well as from posting questions about it on social media.”
The group also reflected on the young trainee’s brief time as an idol in a message shared on X.
“One-third of [Runa’s] life was spent as an idol. loved everyone dearly. If possible, please let her remain in a corner of your hearts as an eternal idol,” the message continued.
