Legendary Voice Actress Idol Unit i☆Ris Announces Disbandment at the End of 2027

Iconic J-pop idol group and voice acting quintet i☆Ris has officially confirmed that the group will cease all activities at the end of 2027, coinciding with their 15th anniversary in the entertainment industry. Co-managed by talent powerhouse 81 Produce and record label Avex Pictures, the five active members made the joint announcement on October 11 via their official portal. The group will spend their final active period celebrating fifteen years of music, voice roles, and anime theme songs alongside fans, culminating in major live performances across Japan.

Why Is i☆Ris Disbanding After 15 Years of Activity?

According to internal group statements released by Avex and 81 Produce, discussions regarding the long-term future of the unit began shortly after their 10th anniversary celebration in 2022. Following extensive conversations between team members and management, the quintet reached a unanimous agreement to conclude activities gracefully at the end of 2027, marking a full fifteen years together.

In member messages posted to their website, Yuki Wakai assured fans that the decision was not sparked by internal conflict, but rather a mutual agreement reached after years of careful reflection. Yu Serizawa reminded supporters that over a full year of live shows, single releases, and promotional events remains before the final curtain call. Meanwhile, Miyu Kubota highlighted their upcoming 14th anniversary concert event at the Yokohama Arena scheduled for November 3 as the immediate next milestone.

What Is the Legacy and History of i☆Ris in the Anime Industry?

Formed in July 2012 following the Anison Vocal Audition co-hosted by Avex and 81 Produce, i☆Ris debuted on November 7, 2012, with their landmark single “Color.” The group achieved widespread fame after all six original members were cast as the lead characters in the hit arcade and anime franchise PriPara starting in 2014.

• Discography History: Over their fifteen-year career, i☆Ris has released 27 physical singles, including their latest track “Welcome to Azatosa World” in July 2026, alongside five full-length studio albums, topped by 2025’s Viva Idol.
• Lineup Evolution: The original six-member lineup remained intact until March 31, 2021, when founding member Azuki Shibuya officially graduated to pursue solo endeavors. Saki Yamakita, Yu Serizawa, Himika Akaneya, Yuki Wakai, and Miyu Kubota have continued performing as a quintet ever since.
• Theatrical Anime Film: Celebrating their decade-long bond, the group starred as animated versions of themselves in the feature film i☆Ris the Movie: Full Energy!!, which premiered in theaters on May 17, 2024, and is currently available for streaming on Prime Video and Apple TV.

Fans can follow official updates, ticket presales for the Yokohama Arena performance, and upcoming tour dates through the i☆Ris Official Website.