Overseasidol.com — Former HKT48 and IZ*ONE member, Yabuki Nako continues to rise in her acting career following her graduation from HKT48 in April 2023.
She is now stepping into the world of musicals for the first time, playing the beloved character Pinoko in the stage adaptation of Black Jack.
In a recent interview, Nako opened up about her passion for acting and recalled heartfelt advice from her senior in the entertainment world, Sashihara Rino.
One particular moment from her junior high school days still resonates deeply with her.
During her rebellious phase, it was Sashihara who scolded her firmly, playing a role much like a mother.
“She was like a mom to me back then,” Nako fondly recalled. Nowadays, she likens their relationship to that of distant relatives due to their busy schedules.
Still, they keep in touch through LINE messages. Nako shared a sweet story: when she sent Sashihara her musical schedule in Tokyo, Sashihara had already added it to her calendar without hesitation.
Touched by her senior’s continued support, Nako admitted that having her watch the live stage performance makes her nervous but also inspires her to do her best.
