Terrace House Shuts Down After Tragic Loss of Hana Kimura
When Reality Turns Into Reality
Just when viewers thought the latest season of the iconic Netflix hit was getting even more exciting, a heartbreaking turn of events forced the show to pause. A 22‑year‑old star, Hana Kimura, a professional wrestler and charismatic cast member, sadly took her own life on May 23.
What Happened?
- Sudden death—Hana was reported deceased by her wrestling agency, World Wonder Ring Stardom.
- Authorities found a suicide note at her Tokyo apartment, hinting that relentless online harassment was a heavy burden.
- Just hours before the news broke, she had posted a sweet photo with her cat on Instagram, captioned: “I love you. Live a happy, long life. I’m sorry.”
Immediate Reactions
Fans worldwide erupted in shock, sending words that ranged from plain astonishment to a flood of tears. Social media erupted with calls for deeper conversations about cyber‑bullying and mental health.
Show’s Decision
Terrace House’s production team, via their Twitter account, promptly announced a halt in filming:
“We have decided to suspend the production of Terrace House Tokyo 2019‑2020. We take this issue very seriously and would like to continue to respond earnestly.”
Any episodes slated to air later this week or next have been put on hold, effectively putting a stop to the season.
Why It Matters
- Global fanbase—The reality series, once a Fuji TV drama in 2012, has amassed a massive following on Netflix since 2015.
- Mixed online feedback—During the shoot inside a luxurious Tokyo house, Hana was subjected to harsh, villainous comments, a stark reminder of how social media can go dark.
- Government response—Japanese officials pledged to bolster anti‑cyberbullying measures after the tragedy, giving the issue a front‑page spotlight.
What Comes Next?
Although the show had recently resumed after its COVID‑19 pause earlier this month, the sudden loss of Hana has thrown the production into a contemplative standstill. The network will likely reassess its approach to mental health support for cast members.
In a world that loves drama, this shows that sometimes the stakes run far beyond the living room. As fans and creators alike grapple with this painful reality, we wait for the storm to subside and a thoughtful resolution to emerge.
