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Yu Shirota
Yu Shirota
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Yu Shirota (城田 優, Shirota Yū; born December 26, 1985) is a Japanese actor and singer, most known for his role as Kagurazaka Makoto in the Japanese television drama live action adaption of Hana-Kimi, Kunimitsu Tezuka in the Prince of Tennis Musicals, Tuxedo Mask in the Sailor Moon Musicals and as Kei Shinjo in Rookies. In 2009, he was named one of the most promising actors and actresses, placing 8th in a poll conducted by Oricon.[1] He is a former member of the Watanabe Entertainment group, D-BOYS.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Shirota was born on December 26, 1985, to a Spanish mother, Pepi (née Fernandez) and a Japanese father, Shirota Mitsuo (城田光男).[2] Shirota lived in Barcelona, Spain from when he was three to about seven years old. He returned to Japan for elementary school and can still speak Spanish in ordinary conversation. He attended high school at Horikoshi High along with NEWS member Tomohisa Yamashita, WaT's Teppei Koike, Japanese actor Toma Ikuta and KAT-TUN's Jin Akanishi and Koki Tanaka.

According to Shirota, when he was little, his family liked to sing songs, so he would borrow his older sister's keyboard, while his mother taught him piano. Thus spawned Shirota's love for composing. He composed his first piece when he was in the fourth grade, titled "The Tear".[3]

Career

[edit]

Yu Shirota's acting career began from 2003 to 2004, when Shirota became the 7th actor to play Tuxedo Kamen (Tuxedo Mask) in the Sailor Moon Musicals. His first official performance as Tuxedo Kamen was on January 2, 2003, in the 2003 Winter Special Mugen Gakuen – Mistress Labyrinth (Kaiteiban). He also demonstrated his ability to play acoustic guitar on stage live, during the Starlights – Ryuusei Densetsu performances. The 2004 New Legend of Kaguya Island was Shirota's last performance as Tuxedo Kamen. That night, on September 5, 2004, after he performed his final rendition of "Prince of Earth", he announced his graduation from the role and received flowers from Kousei Amano who had previously played Tuxedo Kamen in the original 1999 Kaguya Island musical. He also began working for a year on the Japanese program, Hanamaru Cafe, as part of the Hanamaru apron team, often leaving set for locations and displaying prizes for viewers during game corners.

During this time, Shirota won the role of Kunimitsu Tezuka, the stoic captain of Seigaku Middle School's tennis club, in the Prince of Tennis musicals series, Tenimyu. From 2005 to 2006, he became the third actor to play Tezuka as a member of the second-generation Seigaku cast. He made his debut as Tezuka on January 8, 2005, in the Side Yamabuki performance in Osaka. That same year, his role as Tezuka was carried into the live adaptation film of the manga and marked his first major film appearance. He also released a Best Actor's album in 2005, for his role as Tezuka. On March 29, 2006, in the Dream Live 3rd Live concert, he along with the majority of the second generation Seigaku cast, graduated from their roles.

Through 2006, Shirota began appearing in a couple dramas and movies including the 2005 Watanabe net drama, Hice Cool,[4] the TV drama special, The Hit Parade,[5] portraying the real-life Mickey Curtis and the June Bride[6] movie in which he played the title character, Natsumi, based on the original manga Jyun Bride by Satoshi Yoshida, resulted in a made for DVD release sequel, Zoku June Bride. In 2007, after nearly a year away from musicals, Shirota returned to stage and starred as Anthony Hope, the cheerful young sailor, in the Japanese stage production of Sweeney Todd.[7] The musical opened on January 5, 2007 and ran through January 29, 2007, at the Nissay Theatre with additional performances during February in Osaka. Shirota then began appearing in a string of dramas, the first being the TV drama, Dignity of Haken,[8] featured Shirota as the half-Spanish Ryuto Amaya, premiered on January 10, 2007, on NTV and ended its run on March 21, 2007. Shirota next appeared in his second TV drama appearance, in the April 2007 drama, Seito Shokun!,[9] which is an adaptation of the manga series, Seito Shokun. He played Ken Mizuhara, a physical education teacher. In his third TV drama role of the year, Shirota appeared in the popular adaptation of Hanazakari No Kimitachi e,[10] which began on July 3, 2007, playing the character of Kagurazaka Makoto, a high-jumping rival to Sano Izumi.

Shirota also appeared in a string of films in 2007. The first being Arakure KNIGHT,[11] the live-action movie adaptation of the 1982 to 1988 manga series, Aratanaru Shobaku by Satosi Yoshida. The film opened in limited release, premiering at Cinema GAGA on April 28, 2007. The second of his three films, Shirota played a main supporting actor in the film adaptation of Gettsu Itaya's semi-autobiographical novel, Waruboro and was released on September 8, 2007,[12] as principal filmography began on September 20, 2006. Before October 2006, Shirota finished filming for his third movie, Heat Island,[13] which was released on October 20, 2007, and is based on the book of the same title written by Kakine Ryuosuke. Shirota played Aki, a street gangster who moves around Shibuya (a district in Tokyo) causing trouble and accidentally obtains a large sum of money that belongs to a crime group; however, the money once belonged to an illegal casino operated by the Yakuza and both groups are after the money.

After Shirota's run as Charles Lindbergh in the 2007 year-end Japanese production of the Take Flight[14] musical, Shirota starred in the January 2008 TV drama, Koshonin – The Negotiator,[15] portraying Mariya Kyousuke, a condemned criminal. Next, Shirota starred in Rookies, the successful baseball drama based on the manga of the same name by Morita Masanori, playing Kei Shinjo. The series first aired on April 19, 2008, and ended July 26, 2008. after 11 episodes. He would reprise his role as Kagurazaka Makoto in the 2008 Hana Kimi special episode. In 2009, Shirota starred in the made-for-television movie, Go Ape, reprised his role as Shinjo Kei in the feature film for Rookies – Sotsugyou, and co-starred with Haruma Miura in Samurai High School as the soft-spoken, Nakamura Tsuyoshi. He also reprised his role as Mariya Kyousuke for the second season of Koshonin – The Negotiator and the 2010 feature film release of Koshonin – The Movie. He is also set to be in the Japanese stage production of Elisabeth as Der Tod from August 2010 to October 2010.

He also played Ryuji Danma in the 2012 live-action version of Great Teacher Onizuka.

Shirota made his solo singing debut as "U" in May 2011 under Avex Trax, releasing his debut triple A-side single, "U/Heart of glass/Sisyphus".[16] His first album is called UNO.

For the Japanese edition of his solo debut album, BACK TO ME, Backstreet Boys member Howie D (aka Howard Dorough) sought out Japanese idol Shirota for one of the bonus tracks, "If I Say" which was digitally released as a single on October 12, 2011.[17]

With the D-BOYS

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Shirota joined the Watanabe Entertainment group, the D-BOYS in October 2004. As a member, he participated in photobook releases, stage performances, radio show hosting, event and meeting greetings, and filming variety shows.

With the D-BoYS, he was featured in their first two photobooks, the self-titled D-Boys[18] and the second called Start.[19] He hosted a radio show called "Marvelous Radio Vibration" with fellow D-BOYS member Kotaro Yanagi and Yukki.[20] The show aired on May 5, 2005, and ended its run on April 1, 2006. The D-BOYS then starred in their own drama documentary variety show called, DD-Boys[21] in which Shirota's appeared in multiple episodes as himself. The show was 23 episodes long and ran from April 10 to September 25, 2006.

In June 2007, the D-BOYS starred in their first musical together called, D-BOYS STAGE,[22] which ran from June 3 to 10 at the Space Zero theater in Tokyo.[23] Shirota appeared in the musical only as a guest performer, making select appearances on June 3, June 8 and 10, due to his busy schedule. The D-BOYS then starred in their 2nd musical, The Last Game to which on June 27, 2008, Shirota announced his graduation during the encore of the play while assuring the media that he would still remain under the Watanabe Entertainment management and still participate in certain D-BOYS projects and events. He officially graduated from the group on July 6, 2008.

Despite having graduated from the D-BOYS, in December 2009, he was featured in both the sixth DVD release of the D-BOYS' Boy Friend series, called YU Channel and their "Kotoshi no Natsu wa Mainichi Dokoka de D-BOYS ☆Uki-uki♪Yatta♪Hohohoy♪" performance events, resulting in appearances in all three Natsu Doko 2009 CD and DVD releases, as well as appearances for promoting their second tour, Fuyu Doko 2009.

Personal life

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In April 2006, Shirota experienced language study studying abroad for 1 week in the Australian Gold Coast.[24] His experiences were recorded in the Language Study studying abroad 2007 journal series and covered in detail over 13 pages of his thoughts after the experience and the return home.[25] In June 2006, he then visited New York to see five Broadway musicals: The Producers, Rent, Spelling Bee, Sweeney Todd, and The Phantom of the Opera. Shirota appears regularly in many magazines and journals. In January 2007, Wink up Magazine (Wanibooks) started a monthly column written by Shirota. This column is titled "How are you?" and usually features one picture taken by Shirota.

He, with Hirofumi Araki, also attended the opening night for the Advancement Side Rokkaku feat. Hyotei Gakuen of Tenimyu on August 3, 2006, to support Hiroki Aiba and Kousuke Kujirai.

Shirota has dated "Seventeen" model Keiko Kitagawa and actress Misako Yasuda.

In October 2011, he became an honorary fan of FC Barcelona.[26]

Shirota has an older brother named Jun Shirota, who is also an actor and a singer. His other siblings are Maria, Rina and Dai.

Selected filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2006 Jun Bride Natsumi Leading role [27]
2009 A Good Husband Ken Nishida [28]
2012 Arakawa Under the Bridge Sister [29]
2013 SPEC: Close Satoshi Chii [30]
2015 Akegarasu Aoi [31]
2020 The Untold Tale of the Three Kingdoms Lü Bu [32]
2021 Remain in Twilight Matsuoka [33]
2022 The Confidence Man JP: Episode of the Hero Gerard González [34]
Violence Action Michitaka-kun [35]
2025 Salary Man Kintaro Takatsukasa [36]
Salary Man Kintaro 2 Takatsukasa [37]

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2008 Rookies Kei Shinjo [38]
2009 Tenchijin Sanada Yukimura Taiga drama [39]
2011 Arakawa Under the Bridge Sister [29]
2021 Komi Can't Communicate Shisuto Naruse [40]
2021–22 Come Come Everybody Narrator Asadora [41]
2023 What Will You Do, Ieyasu? Mori Nagayoshi Taiga drama [42]
2025 1972: Nagisa no Keika Jack Shinsuke Ikezawa Miniseries [43]

Japanese dub

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2020 Onward Barley Lightfoot [44]

Music videos

[edit]
Year Title Artist Notes Ref.
2006 Kimi no Tame ni Boku ga Tate ni Naro Rag Fair [45]


Stage

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  • March 22 and 23, 2007, as a guest performer in the Out of Order Live Entertainment Show

Japanese Original Musicals/Plays

SERAMYU: Sailor Moon Musical Series (as Chiba Mamoru / Tuxedo Kamen)

  • Musical Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Aki no Fan Kansha Event (2002)
  • Winter Special Musical Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Mugen Gakuen – Mistress Labyrinth (Kaiteiban) (2003)
  • Musical Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon GW Fan Kansha Event (2003)
  • Summer Special Musical Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Starlights * Ryuusei Densetsu (2003)
  • Musical Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Aki no Fan Kansha Event (2003)
  • Winter Special Musical Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Kakyuu-Ouhi Kourin THE SECOND STAGE FINAL (2004)
  • Summer Special Musical Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Shin – Kaguya Shima Densetsu Golden Week Fan Kansha Event (2004)
  • Summer Special Musical Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Shin – Kaguya Shima Densetsu NEW LEGEND OF KAGUYA ISLAND (2004)

TENIMYU: The Prince of Tennis Musical Series (as Kunimitsu Tezuka)

  • The Prince of Tennis Musical: Side Yamabuki feat. St Rudolph (In Winter of 2004–2005)
  • The Prince of Tennis Musical: Dream Live 2nd (2005)
  • The Prince of Tennis Musical: The Imperial Match Hyotei Gakuen (In Winter of 2005–2006)
  • The Prince of Tennis Musical: The Imperial Match Hyotei Gakuen in Winter (2006)
  • The Prince of Tennis Musical: Dream Live 3rd (2006)
  • The Prince of Tennis Musical: Dream Live 7th (2010, guest appearance)

D-BOYS STAGE Series

  • vol. 1 Sold-out Thanks – Nagatsuka Saburo (on June 6 and 9, 2007)
  • vol. 2 The Last Game – Aimoto Shinichiro (June to July 2008)

Earth Gorgeous Produce Series

  • vol. 14 The Love Bugs – Thinklemans (2016.1.9~2.24 TBS Akasaka ACT Theater, 3.1~3.3 Aichi Arts Center, 3.11~3.13 Fukuwoka Sun Palace, 3.19~3.29 Festival Hall)

European and American Musicals/Plays under Japanese Production

Sweeney Todd the Musical: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street – Anthony Hope (January 5 to 29, 2007)

Take Flight the Musical – Charles Lindbergh (2007.11.24~12.9 Tokyo International Forum Hall C, 12.14~12.16 Kita-kyushu Art Theater, 12.19~12.21 Chunichi Theater, 2008.1.3~1.5 Umeda Art Theater)

Elisabeth Das Musical – Der Tod

  • Triple Cast with Yamaguchi Yuichiro, Ishimaru Kanji (2010.8.9~10.30 Imperial Theater)
  • Double Cast with Inoue Yoshio (2015.6.11~8.26 Imperial Theater)
  • Double Cast with Inoue Yoshio (2016.6.28~7.26 Imperial Theater, 8.6~9.4 Hakataza Theater, 9.11~9.30 Umeda Art Theater MainHall, 10.8~10.23 Chunichi Theater)

Roméo et Juliette -

  • as Romeo, Double Cast with Yamazaki Ikusaburo (2011.9.7~10.2 TBS Akasaka ACT Theater, 10.8~10.20 Umeda Art Theater MainHall)
  • as Romeo, with other 2 actors understudy / Tybalt (2013.9.3~10.5 Tokyu Theater Orb, 10.12~10.27 Umeda Art Theater MainHall)

Phantom the Musical – Phantom/Eric (2014.9.13~9.29 TBS Akasaka ACT Theater, 10.5~10.15 Umeda Art Theater MainHall)

Miss Julie the Straight Play – Jean (2017.3.10~4.1 Bunkamura Theater Cocoon)

Bullets over Broadway the Musical – Cheech (2018.2.7~2.28 Nissay Theater, 3.5~3.20 Umeda Art Theater MainHall, 3.24~4.1 Hakataza Theater)

Kinky Boots – Lola (Spring till Summer 2022 at New National Theatre in Tokyo, the Orix Theater in Osaka and the Tokyu Theatre Orb in Shibuya)

Dance of the Vampires – Graf von Krolock (Spring till Summer 2025 at New National Theatre in Tokyo, the Orix Theater in Osaka and the Tokyu Theatre Orb in Shibuya)

Live & Concert

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Live

  • U 1st LIVE (2011.12.17 Umeda Art Theater Dramacity, 12.25~12.26 Tokyo Akasaka BLITZ)
  • Love & Peace Tour 2012 (2012.3.2 Tokyo SHIBUYA-AX, 2012.3.4 Nagoya Diamond Hall, 2012.3.9 Osaka Morinomiya Piloti Hall)
  • YU SHIROTA LIVE 2012「Segundo」 (2012.12.21~12.22 Tokyo Akasaka BLITZ, 2012.12.26 Osaka Namba Hatch)

Concert

  • 「Meet in Beijing Arts Festival(12th)」Shirota Yu Concert (2012.5.9 Beijing Haidian Theater)
  • 「4Stars One World Broadway Musicals」Concert (2013.6.15~6.23 Aoyama Theater, 6.27~6.30 Umeda Art Theater Main Hall)

*** The other three performers are Ramin Karimloo, Sierra Boggess and Lea Salonga. ***

  • Yu & Musical Lovers 2013 (2013.12.26~12.27 Tokyo Nihonbashi Mitsui Hall)
  • Umeda Art Theater 10th Anniversary Concert「Golden Songs」(2015.2.19 Tokyo International Forum Hall C) – Guest performer 
  • Iwatani Tokiko Memorial Concert (2015.10.1 Nakano Sun Plaza Hall)
  • Friends of Disney Concert 2016 (2016.4.9 Tokyo International Forum Hall A)
  • Iwatani Tokiko Memorial Concert-Forever-Vol.2 (2017.11.7 Nakano Sun Plaza Hall)
  • 4Stars 2017 Concert (2017.12.14~12.17 Umeda Art Theater Main Hall, 12.20~12.28 Tokyo International Forum Hall C)

*** The other three performers are Ramin Karimloo, Sierra Boggess and Cynthia Erivo. ***

Discography

[edit]

Shirota has currently released two solo EP albums with Avex Trax, one solo album for the Prince of Tennis musical and three with the D-BOYS in Japan (JPN), only.

Year Cover Info Chart positions Track Listings
JPN[46]
2005 Musical Tennis no Ohjisama (The Prince of Tennis)
Imperial Match Hyotei Gakuen Best Actor's Series 001
Yu Shirota as Kunimitsu Tezuka
  • Release date: December 19, 2005
  • 1st Studio album
  • Formats: CD
N/A
  1. "Owarinaki Stage"
  2. "Ashita Fuku Kaze"
  3. "Tachitsukusu Kanata"
  4. "Instrumental – Tezuka vs Inui"
  5. "Yudan Sezu ni Ikou – Kunimitsu Solo Edition"
  6. "Instrumental – Kikumaru/Momoshiro vs Oshitari/Mukahi"
  7. "Semero, Tsuyoku Nare"
  8. "Instrumental – Fuji vs Akutagawa"
  9. "Omae wa Seigaku no Hashira ni Nare – Kunimitsu Solo Edition"
  10. "Yuu Shirota Message for you"
2011 U 17
  1. "Sisyphus"
  2. "U"
  3. "Heart of Glass"
  4. "Ama Se Cuando"
  5. "Instrumental – Sisyphus"
  6. "Instrumental – U"
  7. "Instrumental – Heart of Glass"
2011 Setsuna ~ A Sandglass of Fate (Type C)
  • Release date: September 7, 2011
  • 2nd Extended play album
  • Formats: CD
43
  1. "Setsuna ~ A Sandglass of Fate"
  2. "La Flor Abandonada"
  3. "Love & Peace"
  4. "Instrumental – Setsuna ~ A Sandglass of Fate"
  5. "Instrumental – La Flor Abandonada"
  6. "Instrumental – Love & Peace"
Year Title CD Info Track List
2003 Seramyu – Starlights – Ryuusei Densetsu OST of the Musical as Tuxedo Kamen
  • Kaze no Shijin
  • Prince of the Earth
  • Get Across the Moon
  • What For!? Shinjitsu no Kajitsu
2004 Seramyu – New Legend of Kaguya Island OST of the Musical as Tuxedo Kamen
  • Dark Menorah
  • Moonlight Justice
  • What is a Mother?
  • And Believe in All (2004 summers Ver.)
  • Everyone is Loved by Someone
Seramyu – Marinamoon Special Edition OST of the Musical as Tuxedo Kamen
  • Moonlight Justice
2005 Tenimyu – Side Yamabuki Feat. St. Rudolph Gakuen in Winter OST of the Musical as Kunimitsu Tezuka Track List
Tenimyu – Dream Live 2nd OST of the Musical as Kunimitsu Tezuka Track List
Tenimyu – The Imperial Match Hyoutei Gakuen OST of the Musical as Kunimitsu Tezuka Track List
2006 Tenimyu – Dream Live 3rd OST of the Musical as Kunimitsu Tezuka Track List
Musical Tennis no Ohjisama Complete CD Box OST of the Musical as Kunimitsu Tezuka Track List

Official DVDs

[edit]

On November 16, 2005, Shirota released an Idol DVD called With U.[47] The DVD includes an acoustic performance for the song "Natsu no Owari ~ Mou Kako no Koi", for which he had composed and written lyrics. Despite having graduated from the D-BOYS, in December 2009, he was featured in both the sixth DVD release of the D-BOYS' Boy Friend series, called YU Channel and their "Kotoshi no Natsu wa Mainichi Dokoka de D-BOYS Ukiuki Yatta Hohhohoi" event, resulting in appearances in all three Natsu Doko CD and DVD releases.

Year Series DVD title DVD cover DVD Info Release date Label / Distributor
2005 Men's DVD Series With U First Solo DVD November 16, 2005 MMV
2009 Natsu Doko 2009 Natsu Doko 2009 Kaze – Team Wind version Memorial Footage December 16, 2009 SonyMusic
Natsu Doko 2009 Natsu Doko 2009 Yama – Team Mountain version Memorial Footage December 16, 2009 SonyMusic
Natsu Doko 2009 Natsu Doko 2009 Kawa – Team River version Memorial Footage December 16, 2009 SonyMusic
D-BOYS Boy Friend Series YU Channel Vol 6. December 23, 2009 Geneon

Bibliography

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See also

[edit]

Notes

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References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Yu Shirota (城田優, Shirota Yū; born December 26, 1985) is a Japanese actor and singer of mixed Japanese and Spanish heritage, with a Japanese father and Spanish mother. He debuted in the entertainment industry in 2003, portraying in the *, and has since built a prominent career across stage, television, film, and music. Shirota gained widespread recognition for his role as Tezuka Kunimitsu in the The Prince of Tennis musicals (Tenimyu) and the related live-action film, as well as for playing Kagurazaka Makoto in the 2007 television adaptation of the manga . His versatile performances extend to other notable dramas such as season 2 (2010), where he portrayed the antagonist Fujimaru Takagi, and more recent works like Kyo Kara Ore Wa!! (2018) as the mafia boss. As a singer, he has released albums under , including collaborations and solo tracks, and remains active in live performances and concerts. Born in , he lived in , , from the ages of three to seven before returning to , and attended , where he was classmates with actors and . Affiliated with Watanabe Entertainment, he stands at 190 cm tall and continues to appear in high-profile projects, including international endeavors like GTO in (2014) and 2025 projects such as the musical Dance of the Vampires and the drama My Fave, the Killer.

Career overview

Involvement with D-BOYS

Yu Shirota was selected as one of the original members of , a young male actor group under Watanabe Entertainment, joining in October 2004 following a successful audition held in July of that year. The group, formed around 2003-2004 to foster emerging talents in drama, was designed to promote development and debut opportunities for its members through collaborative endeavors. From 2004 to 2008, Shirota actively participated in group activities, including photoshoots for promotional materials, stage productions, magazine features, and events such as the variety program DD-BOYS aired from April to September 2006. He also contributed to collaborative projects like the 2005 net drama Hice Cool, where he starred alongside fellow members Kotaro Yanagi, , and Osamu Adachi, helping to elevate the group's visibility in promoting stage and television talents. These efforts focused on building collective exposure for the members in the Japanese entertainment landscape. Shirota announced his graduation from on June 27, 2008, during an encore performance of the group's musical The Last Game, with the official departure taking effect on July 6, 2008, to allow him to pursue a solo career. Despite leaving the group, he maintained connections, returning as a featured artist on the 2009 D-BOYS summer festival CD, credited as "D-BOYS (+ Shirota Yuu!)." His involvement with D-BOYS provided essential initial training in acting, singing, and overall performance skills, serving as a key platform for networking within the Japanese industry and facilitating early career breakthroughs.

Breakthrough acting roles

Shirota made his acting debut in 2003 as in the Sailor Moon musicals, marking his entry into stage performance with the role of the masked guardian Mamoru Chiba across several productions from 2003 to 2004. Building on this foundation, Shirota portrayed Kunimitsu Tezuka, the stoic captain of Seigaku's tennis team, in the Prince of Tennis musicals from 2005 to 2006, a role that showcased his ability to embody disciplined, intense characters and contributed to his growing presence in the Tenimyu series. His television breakthrough came in 2007 with the role of Kagurazaka Makoto, the charismatic yet antagonistic student leader, in the Fuji TV drama (Hanazakari no Kimitachi e: Ikemen Paradise), where his performance as the sharp-tongued rival helped propel the series to high ratings and widespread popularity among young audiences. This success was amplified by his affiliation with the acting group, which provided early networking opportunities. In 2008, Shirota transitioned to film with his role as the tough delinquent Shinjo Kei in the TBS drama Rookies, later reprised in the 2009 theatrical adaptation, where he demonstrated versatile dramatic range in depicting a troubled youth's redemption through baseball, further solidifying his reputation as a rising talent. By 2009, Shirota's early successes earned him recognition as a promising actor in Oricon's annual survey of anticipated performers, reflecting industry and fan acclaim for his breakthrough roles. He has since maintained a prominent acting career across television, film, stage, and international projects, including GTO in Taiwan (2014) and films like Salaryman Kintaro (2025).

Transition to music and singing

Following his breakthrough in acting, Shirota expanded his career into , drawing on a lifelong interest in composition that began in childhood; coming from a musical family, he wrote his first song in and learned from his mother. His experiences in stage musicals, where vocal performance was central, further encouraged this shift, allowing him to blend with in hybrid projects. In May 2011, Shirota signed with Avex Trax and made his solo singing debut under the stage name "U," releasing the triple A-side single "U/Heart of Glass/Sisyphus." This marked his entry into the music industry, supported by his established fame from acting roles. Early in his music endeavors, Shirota contributed theme songs to television dramas, including "U" for the 2011 series Yotsuba Jinja Ura Kagyō: Shitsuren Hoken ~Kokusēya on Yomiuri TV. He followed the single with his debut album UNO in March 2012, which integrated original compositions and collaborations, such as with Backstreet Boys member Howie Dorough. Shirota balanced his acting and music careers thereafter, incorporating original songs into musical theater productions and maintaining a dual focus that enhanced his versatility across entertainment fields. In subsequent years, he transitioned to , releasing albums such as a singer (2018) and Mariage (2020), and continued active in concerts and stage productions, including the musical Dance of the Vampires (scheduled for spring-summer 2025).

Acting works

Television dramas

Yu Shirota debuted in television dramas in 2005 with a main role as Nakajo Maki in the 13-episode series Pink no Idenshi, portraying a young professional navigating corporate intrigue. His early career featured guest spots, such as Ayase Shouichi in episode 7 of the 9-episode Kami wa Saikoro wo Furanai (2006), before transitioning to supporting roles in ensemble casts. In 2007, Shirota gained widespread recognition for his role as Kagurazaka Makoto in the 12-episode Hana-Kimi, where he played a fiercely competitive track athlete and dorm leader who serves as a rival to the protagonist, showcasing his ability to blend intensity with charm in a school setting. That year, he also appeared as Amaya Ryuto in the 10-episode workplace drama The Pride of the Temp, depicting a determined temporary worker striving for permanence in a competitive office environment, and as Mizuhara Ken in the 10-episode Seito Shokun!, a student entangled in school scandals. Shirota's 2008 roles included Shinjo Kei in the 11-episode sports drama , as a rebellious baseball team member who undergoes personal growth through team dynamics, contributing to the series' focus on redemption and camaraderie. He followed with Himuro Koichiro in the 11-episode medical thriller Team Batista no Eiko, playing a hospital staffer amid a mystery plot, and Mariya Kyosuke in the 8-episode action series Koshonin, as a operative in high-stakes rescue missions. By 2009, Shirota took a lead role as Nakamura Tsuyoshi in the 9-episode family drama High School, embodying a disciplined yet conflicted high schooler balancing and , which highlighted his versatility in youth-oriented narratives. He also portrayed the historical figure in the expansive 47-episode Tenchijin, depicting the samurai's strategic battles and loyalty during Japan's , and reprised Mariya Kyosuke in the 9-episode Koshonin Season 2. In 2010, Shirota supported as Chii Satoshi in the 10-episode sci-fi mystery SPEC: Birth, a special investigator dealing with supernatural cases that tested his dramatic range in genre-blending scenarios. His 2011 lead in the 9-episode action-thriller Jiu came as Amamiya Takashi, a skilled member of a unit combating corporate corruption and violence, marking a pivotal role in intensifying his presence in suspense-driven series. Additional 2011 appearances included a supporting character in the 10-episode Arakawa Under the Bridge and a lead in the 13-episode romantic drama Shitsuren Hoken. Shirota continued with supporting roles in 2012, notably as Danma Ryuji in the 11-episode remake of GTO: Great Teacher Onizuka, portraying a tough delinquent student who clashes with and eventually respects the unconventional teacher Eikichi Onizuka, emphasizing themes of reform and mentorship in a school comedy-action format. He also appeared in the long-running 151-episode family saga Jun to Ai as Mizuno Yasukazu and in the 4-episode Taiyo wa Matte Kurenai. Throughout the 2010s, Shirota balanced leads and supports in diverse genres, including the 9-episode mystery Abandoned (2014) as Tojo Yuki, a detective unraveling family secrets; reprising Danma Ryuji in GTO: Remake Season 2 (2014, 11 episodes); and the 10-episode guest role in Subete ga F ni Naru (2014). In 2015, he featured in the 10-episode Marumaru Tsuma as Itagaki Masaki, a husband in a marriage counseling plot, and led the 18-episode Watashitachi ga Puropozu Sarenai noni wa, 101 no Riyuu ga Atte da na Season 2. Later highlights included a guest in the 12-episode fantasy Yuusha Yoshihiko to Michibikareshi Shichinin (2016) and Carl Yusuke Kellner in the 60-episode biographical Totto-chan! (2017). In the late and early , Shirota took main roles like the protagonist in the 8-episode mystery Watashi no Ojisan: Wataoji (2019) as Chiba Jin, navigating unconventional relationships. He appeared in the 112-episode Come Come Everybody (2021) as the dual-role William Lawrence / Billy, exploring family ties across generations. Guest spots followed in Tokyo MER (2021, episodes 7, 9-11) as Elliott Tsubaki and the 8-episode Komi-san wa, Komyushou Desu. (2021). More recently, Shirota supported as Hiiragi Shusuke in the 6-episode medical action series Angel Flight: Kokusai Kuukyuu Sokanshi (2023), playing an air rescue team member in life-or-death missions. In 2024, he guested as Uesugi Toshihiro in episode 7 of the 10-episode Black Pean Season 2, contributing to a high-stakes surgical thriller. As of 2025, Shirota stars as the main lead Ando Hajime in the 12-episode romantic comedy Ikinari Kon, portraying a company executive who unexpectedly marries his subordinate, blending workplace humor with sudden domestic life. He also supports as Kawato Junya in the 13-episode suspense drama Oshi no Satsujin (My Fave, the Killer), involving idol group members covering up a murder amid escalating threats, and as Jack Shinsuke Ikezawa in the 5-episode 1972 Nagisa no Keika. Overall, Shirota's television work spans over 30 credits, often emphasizing character-driven arcs in action, romance, and mystery genres. He has occasionally contributed theme songs to his dramas, such as tracks from his discography tied to series soundtracks.

Films

Yu Shirota entered the film industry in 2006 with his debut in the romantic comedy , portraying the supporting role of Natsumi alongside fellow D-Boys members Hiroki Suzuki and Hirofumi Araki. This early role highlighted his charm in lighter, ensemble-driven narratives focused on relationships and personal growth. His breakthrough in cinema came through the sports drama genre with the 2009 film Rookies: Graduation, where he took on the lead role of Shinjo Kei, a delinquent player finding redemption, in this adaptation of the popular series. The film, directed by Yoichi Higashi, emphasized themes of teamwork and perseverance, earning praise for Shirota's energetic performance in action-oriented sequences. In 2013, Shirota appeared in the action thriller SPEC: Close ~ Reincarnation, reprising his character Chii Satoshi from the related project in a exploring abilities and moral dilemmas. This collaboration with director Yukihiko Tsutsumi showcased Shirota's ability to handle intense, genre-blending roles within a high-stakes plot. Throughout his career, Shirota has contributed to around 20 from 2006 to 2025, transitioning from supporting parts in romances like Heat Island (2007) to lead roles in dramas such as Akegarasu (2015), where he played Aoi in a story of revenge and identity. His work spans action films, including Ajin: Demi-Human () as the Ajin terrorist Koji Tanaka, directed by Hiroshi Shinagawa, and thrillers, demonstrating versatility across genres. Post-2020 projects reflect Shirota's continued presence in ensemble action and comedy, such as his supporting role as Michitaka in the hitman-themed Violence Action (2022), a female-led adaptation praised for its stylish fight choreography. In 2021's Remain in Twilight, he portrayed Matsuoka in a poignant drama about urban isolation and fleeting connections, directed by Chihiro Ikeda. Looking ahead, Shirota is slated for dual appearances as Takashi in the 2025 business comedy films Salaryman Kintaro: Akatsuki Hen and Salaryman Kintaro: Kai Hen, continuing his trend of collaborative, character-driven cinema.

Voice acting and dubbing

Yu Shirota has primarily engaged in through foreign films and dramas since the early , leveraging his multilingual abilities, including Spanish and English, to provide Japanese dubs for international productions. His work in this area focuses on replacing voices for prominent Western and Asian actors in theatrical releases and television broadcasts, rather than original characters. One of his notable early dubbing roles was in the 2010 Japanese broadcast of the South Korean action drama IRIS, where he provided the voice for a key character, marking his entry into foreign media localization. This role highlighted his versatility in adapting to high-stakes narrative styles typical of international thrillers. In 2015, Shirota took on the Japanese dub for Prince Kit in Disney's live-action Cinderella, voicing Richard Madden in the romantic fantasy film, which was praised for his warm and princely delivery that aligned with the character's charm. The dubbing contributed to the film's successful release in Japan, emphasizing Shirota's ability to convey emotional depth in English-language adaptations. Shirota expanded into animated features with his role as Barley Lightfoot in the 2020 film Onward, Chris Pratt's character as the adventurous older brother in this fantasy quest story. Paired with Shun Shizon for the duo, his performance brought humor and heartfelt brotherly dynamics to the Japanese audience, making it a standout in his portfolio. While Shirota has fewer lead roles in original Japanese series or OVAs, his efforts in Hollywood and projects since 2010 demonstrate a selective but impactful presence in localization for global blockbusters. Additionally, he served as the narrator for the NHK morning drama from 2021 to 2022 while also appearing on-screen as William Lawrence / Billy, providing voice guidance that enriched the historical narrative.

Stage and musical theater

Shirota debuted on stage in 2003 as the seventh actor to portray Mamoru Chiba / in the musical series (Sera Myu), performing in several productions including the 2003 Winter Special Mugen Gakuen – Mistress Labyrinth (Kaiteiban) and the 2004 Summer Special Shin Kaguya Shima Densetsu. From 2005 to 2006, he played Tezuka Kunimitsu, the stoic captain of Seigaku, in the second-generation cast of the musical series (Tenimyu), debuting on , 2005, in The Imperial Match Hyotei. This role marked his breakthrough in musical theater. Shirota continued his stage career with diverse roles, including Anthony Hope in the Japanese production of Sweeney Todd (2007), Romeo in Romeo & Juliet (2011), and a performer in the concert 4 Stars: One World of Broadway Musicals (2013). In later years, he took on the role of Der Tod (Death) in the Toho productions of Elisabeth (2015–2016), earning acclaim for his performance. He starred as Pippin in the Japanese revival of Pippin at Tokyu Theatre Orb (2019) and as Lola in Kinky Boots (2022). As of 2025, Shirota remains active in stage performances.

Music and performances

Discography

Yu Shirota's discography primarily consists of solo singles and albums released under labels such as and , along with contributions to drama soundtracks and collaborative projects. His music career began with pop and rock-influenced releases tied to his acting roles, evolving into cover albums of musical theater songs and J-pop tributes in later years.

Singles

Shirota debuted as a singer with the triple A-side single "U / Heart of Glass / " on May 4, 2011, under ; "U" served as the theme song for the television drama Yotsuba Jinja Ura Kagyo Shitsuren Hoken ~Kokuraseya. His second single, "Setsuna a sandglass of fate", followed on September 7, 2011, also with . In 2012, he released "Worth Fighting For feat. HOWIE D" on February 22, marking a collaboration with the member. Later singles include the digital release "" on October 2, 2018, under , and "even if" on June 19, 2020. In October 2024, Shirota issued the single "Seeds of Dreams - I'll be by your side".

Albums

Shirota's debut album, UNO, was released on March 7, 2012, by , featuring original tracks alongside covers. He returned in 2018 with the cover album a singer on October 24 via , compiling 11 songs from musicals including duets like "" with SUMIRE. The 2020 album Mariage, released December 2 by , reinterprets J-pop classics such as "First Love" and "Pretender".

Contributions and Collaborations

As a former member of the acting group under Watanabe Entertainment, Shirota contributed vocals to group projects, including tracks on the 2009 compilation D-BOYS Natsu Doko ka and musical performances featured in their Boy Friend DVD series. In drama soundtracks, beyond "U", he provided insert songs for various productions during his early career. More recently, Shirota appeared on the collaborative Actors League 2021 in 2021. In 2025, he contributed the cover "Shojo A" to the tribute Meikyo: Tribute to (Deluxe Edition), honoring the works of , and dueted with Seiko Niizuma on "Beauty and the Beast (from '')" for the Musical Moments 2.

Concerts and live shows

Yu Shirota began his involvement in live performances through his membership in the acting group under Watanabe Entertainment, joining in October 2004 and participating in various fan-oriented events and appearances until his graduation in 2008. These early activities included group showcases and promotional lives that highlighted the members' talents in acting and performance, fostering his initial experience on stage before transitioning to solo endeavors. Following his musical debut as "U" in 2011, Shirota launched his solo concert career with the U 1st LIVE, held on December 17 at Umeda Art Theater Dramacity in and December 25-26 at Akasaka BLITZ in , where he performed selections from his debut single including "U" and "Sisyphus." This was followed by the Love & Peace Tour 2012, commencing on March 2 at SHIBUYA-AX in and extending to multiple cities, featuring songs from his growing discography alongside fan interactions to build his solo fanbase. In recent years, Shirota has expanded into major production roles, producing, co-directing, and starring in the song-and-dance spectacular , which premiered May 14-19, 2024, at East Theater Orb in before its international debut on June 22 at in , blending , Broadway, and hits with collaborators like miwa and RIOSKE. That same year, he served as general director and lead performer for billboard classics × Magical Christmas Night 2024, a orchestral concert series inspired by the universe, held in on December 23 at Bunka Kaikan Main Hall, Hyogo, and , featuring holiday classics and visual storytelling. Additionally, Shirota marked his 25th with the YU SHIROTA 25TH ORCHESTRA CONCERT featuring Naoya Iwaki on October 7, 2024, at Suntory Hall in (with an additional performance), accompanied by the Naoya Iwaki Pops Orchestra and special guest Mari Hanafusa, performing tracks like "Lion Heart" and selections from musicals. Shirota's fan engagement continued with the Yu Shirota Fan Meeting 2024, titled Fun!! fan meeting24, produced entirely by him and held on March 23-24 across multiple venues in , offering unique content per show including performances and Q&A sessions. Looking ahead, he is scheduled for the Yu Shirota Special Dinner Show 2025 Yellow Crocus on February 22 at the Imperial Hotel Tokyo's , combining intimate live singing with a dinner experience in two performances, and his birthday event Chapter40 — The Sound of My Life— on December 26, 2025. His international reach includes performances in , notably the 2024 Singapore show, and ties to through his first overseas fan meeting on October 20, 2012, in , , where he performed songs like "Sisyphus" (Spanish version) and engaged with European fans, reflecting his global appeal as a Barcelona FC honorary supporter.

Personal life

Family background

Yu Shirota was born to a Japanese father and a Spanish mother, Pepi Fernández, who hails from Alconchel in the province of . His mother has experienced three marriages and divorces, leading to a of five children, each with a different father. Shirota is the fourth child in this family. His siblings include older brothers and Jun Shirota, an older sister Maria, and a younger sister Rina (professionally known as ). Brother Jun is also an and singer, while Rina is a former member of the girl group . The Spanish heritage from his mother has profoundly influenced Shirota's personal identity, fostering a bilingual upbringing in Japanese and Spanish. This cultural blend is further highlighted by his early childhood spent in , , where he lived from when he was three to about seven years old, immersing him in both cultures. As of 2025, his mother Pepi remains an active and charismatic figure in the family, having appeared in television programs discussing her life experiences, and the siblings maintain close ties, occasionally collaborating or supporting each other's careers.

Relationships and public image

He had a confirmed two-year relationship with actress Misako Yasuda from 2008 to October 2010, which began after they co-starred in the 2007 film Arakure Knight and ended amicably, as reported by close sources. No further public romantic relationships have been confirmed since then, and as of November 2025, Shirota has not publicly announced any marriage or new partnerships. Shirota's public image is often portrayed as that of a charismatic and multilingual performer, reflecting his Japanese-Spanish heritage and fluency in Spanish acquired from living in Barcelona during his childhood. In October 2011, he was appointed the first honorary fan of FC Barcelona, a role tied to his familial Spanish roots and enthusiasm for the club, which he has occasionally highlighted in interviews. As of 2025, Shirota's personal updates remain limited in view, with no major announcements on changes or ; however, he has continued to engage positively with fans through endeavors, maintaining a polished and approachable persona. Regarding , Shirota has historically been open about past relationships when they became but has since adopted a more reserved approach to his in media interactions, emphasizing boundaries over intimate disclosures.

Other contributions

Music videos and endorsements

Yu Shirota has made notable appearances in music videos both as a lead performer for his own singles and as a featured in collaborations with other musicians. His early involvement in the industry included a guest role in Hoshimura Mai's "Stay With You" in 2002, marking one of his initial forays into visual media beyond acting. In 2003, he appeared in MISIA's "In My Soul," showcasing his versatility in a soulful R&B context. Further collaborations followed, such as his feature in RAG FAIR's "Kimi no Tame ni Boku ga Tate ni Narou" in 2006, where he contributed to the group's energetic pop-rock style. For his solo music career, Shirota starred in promotional videos for several singles released under his U and later as himself. The single "U" featured a dynamic PV emphasizing themes of perseverance, aligning with the track's inspirational . That same year, "Heart of Glass" PV highlighted introspective visuals, complementing the song's emotional depth. In 2012, "Campeones" paid homage to his Spanish heritage with vibrant, football-inspired imagery. Later releases included "My Favorite Things" in 2018, a cover with whimsical staging, and "Die Schatten werden langer," which incorporated dramatic lighting to evoke its German-titled melancholy. In addition to music videos, Shirota has endorsed various brands through television commercials and promotional campaigns, often leveraging his charismatic presence. Early in his career, he appeared in ads for video games, including a series for Shadow Hearts: From the New World and , promoting narrative-driven titles to younger audiences. In 2019, he starred in Visa's "Cashless, More Smartly" campaign, portraying a modern, efficient lifestyle in the "Senior" edition to advocate for digital payments. That year, he also featured in Mel Dia Group's "Fighting Employee" CM, embodying dedication in the home-building sector with a suited, determined persona. More recently, in 2024, Shirota endorsed SANKYO's pachinko machine , expressing enthusiasm in promotional materials tied to the franchise's popularity. These endorsements span entertainment, finance, and consumer goods, reflecting his broad appeal in Japanese media.

Publications and media releases

Yu Shirota has contributed to various photobooks, primarily as part of the collective and in solo endeavors, showcasing his early career and personal milestones. These publications often feature high-quality , interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights into his work in theater and music. Additionally, he has appeared in official DVDs focused on promotional content, acoustic performances, and group activities rather than full-stage recordings. Key photobooks include the D-BOYS group's inaugural release, , published on April 27, 2005, by Tokyo News Service, which highlighted the members' debut-era personas through portrait sessions and group shoots. The follow-up, START: D-BOYS Second Photobook, issued on March 15, 2006, by Gakken Co., Ltd., expanded on this with more dynamic imagery from their rising activities. Shirota's first solo effort, Yu Shirota, came out on September 26, 2007, via , capturing his individual style amid growing fame from musical roles. The D-BOYS third collection, DASH! D-BOYS Photobook, followed on July 26, 2008, from , emphasizing action-oriented themes tied to their stage work. Marking two decades in the industry, his anniversary volume Soñador: Yu Shirota 20th Anniversary Book was released on December 18, 2019, by Publications, including exclusive photos and reflections on his career trajectory. Official DVDs under Shirota's name or featuring him prominently include With U from the Men's DVD Series, distributed by on November 16, 2005, which presented casual interviews, cooking segments, and an acoustic rendition of his composition "Natsu no Owari ~Mou Kako no Koi." In a D-BOYS collaboration, Natsu Doko 2009 Kaze ~Team Wind Version (3CD+2DVD set) was put out by on December 16, 2009, incorporating audio dramas, promotional footage, and event highlights with Shirota alongside members like Shunji Igarashi and Koji Seto. His dedicated entry in the Boy Friend Series, Vol.6: Yu Shirota (Special) - YU Channel, arrived via Geneon on December 23, 2009, offering an intimate look at his post-group activities through personal vlogs and performances. No major new photobooks or DVDs were announced between 2020 and 2025, though Shirota's media presence continued through digital features in entertainment magazines like Myojo and Duet, often revisiting his musical theater legacy.

References

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