Tsuyoshi Kusanagi

Tsuyoshi Kusanagi is a Japanese actor, singer, and television host who rose to global prominence as the former vocalist of the legendary J-pop group SMAP. Born in Seiyo City, Ehime Prefecture, he has maintained a steady presence in the entertainment industry for over three decades. As of 2026, he continues to work actively as a solo performer, balancing dramatic film roles with variety hosting duties.

Kusanagi is widely regarded as one of Japan's most trusted entertainers. His career is defined by his versatility, transitioning seamlessly from an idol pop star to a respected character actor known for playing awkward but kind-hearted everyman figures. He remains a significant cultural figure in Japan, celebrated for his resilience after navigating both personal controversies and the high-profile dissolution of his band. [edit]

Although often associated with Saitama due to his upbringing, Tsuyoshi Kusanagi was born in Seiyo City, Ehime Prefecture. His family moved frequently during his childhood before settling in Kasukabe, Saitama Prefecture, where he spent his formative years. This environment fostered a grounded personality that would later define his public image. His interest in performance began early; he joined a local dance group while in elementary school, displaying a natural rhythm and stage presence.

Kusanagi attended Kasukabe High School, where he became active in the drama club. Unlike many peers who were scouted on the street, he took the initiative to apply for Johnny & Associates' "Johnny Jr." program through an open audition in 1988. This decision marked the beginning of his professional journey. He officially debuted as part of the Johnny's Jr. ensemble in 1991, performing alongside future stars like Masahiro Nakai, Goro Inagaki, Shingo Katori, and Takuya Kimura. Before their official commercial debut, the group performed under the name "SMAP" (Sports Music Assemble People) in various live houses and TV specials, honing their unique blend of pop music and variety comedy. [edit]

Formally debuting as a member of SMAP on September 9, 1991, with the single "Can't Stop!! -LOVING-," Kusanagi quickly became a central figure in the group's synchronized choreography and distinct "idol" image. The group's rise was meteoric, but Kusanagi's individual trajectory shifted significantly in the late 1990s as he transitioned from idol to serious actor. His breakthrough in acting came with roles in dramas like Kizuna (1998) and Aibou (2000), establishing him as a capable dramatic performer beyond his musical roots.

The 2000s solidified his status as a variety show staple. He became a core cast member of the long-running hit SMAP×SMAP, where his improvisational skills and role as the "tsukkomi" (straight man) became iconic. He also hosted the annual NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen multiple times, showcasing his reliability as a national broadcaster. Following the 2010 alcohol-related controversy, Kusanagi faced public scrutiny but rehabilitated his image through steady work and genuine apologies.

When SMAP officially disbanded in January 2016, Kusanagi signed with Culen Inc. and launched a robust solo career. He released solo singles and focused heavily on dramatic roles, earning critical acclaim for his transformative performance as Nagisa in the 2020 film Midnight Swan. This role won him the Japan Academy Prize for Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role. More recently, he starred in the Netflix release Bullet Train Explosion (2025) directed by Shinji Higuchi and the film Bushido (2024), proving his continued relevance in modern cinema. [edit]

Kusanagi is renowned for his "everyman" persona, often playing characters who are slightly awkward but deeply kind-hearted. His style is modest and unpretentious, characterized by simple fashion choices and his trademark round glasses. Media outlets frequently describe him as the "heart" of SMAP, highlighting his warm demeanor and lack of ego. He is known for his improvisational skills on variety shows, particularly his humorous cooking segments on SMAP×SMAP where he famously burned food or made hilarious mistakes, endearing him to the public. His reputation is built on authenticity and resilience rather than manufactured perfection. [edit]

iFANN has evaluated this person, but they do not currently hold a placement in the published rankings (Global Top 1,000 or a Top-100 scope list). While he does not appear in the September 2026 iFAMOUS Rankings flagship list, his influence in Japan remains profound. The fanbase for SMAP, collectively known as "Smapers," remains highly organized. Although Kusanagi does not have a formal individual fandom name documented in current data, his supporters are deeply loyal. Fans refer to him affectionately as "Tsuyon" or "Kusanagi-san." They often organize charity drives in his name, such as donations to disaster relief funds following earthquakes. His relationship with fans is characterized by mutual respect, especially after his public handling of the 2010 incident. [edit]

Kusanagi is famous for his signature round glasses, which he often wears even off-camera. Despite being listed at 170 cm, some sources suggest he may be slightly taller, though he maintains the official figure for consistency. He is an avid golfer and frequently participates in celebrity golf tournaments. Beyond acting and singing, he has lent his voice to anime and video games, including entries in the Final Fantasy series. A defining moment in his career occurred in 2010 when he was photographed drunk at a party. Instead of ending his career, his genuine apology and subsequent hard work turned him into a symbol of resilience, changing how fans viewed him from a distant idol to a relatable human. [edit]

Tsuyoshi Kusanagi has largely kept his romantic life private until recent years. He was previously single and focused entirely on his career until his late 40s. On January 3, 2021, it was announced that he had married a non-celebrity woman whom he had been dating for several years. The wedding was held privately, and the couple did not disclose specific details about her identity to protect her privacy. In May 2026, the couple welcomed their first child, a son. Kusanagi currently lives with his wife and infant son in Tokyo. There are no other publicly known children or siblings mentioned in public records. [edit]

Masahiro Nakai, Takuya Kimura, Shingo Katori, Goro Inagaki, Shinji Higuchi[edit]

Tsuyoshi Kusanagi maintained a low profile regarding his personal life for much of his career, focusing intensely on his work with SMAP and his solo projects. He remained single well into his late 40s, a rarity for a star of his magnitude in the competitive Japanese entertainment industry. On January 3, 2021, it was announced that he had married a non-celebrity woman whom he had been dating for several years prior. The wedding was held privately, and the couple did not disclose how they met or specific details about her identity to protect her privacy.

In May 2026, the couple welcomed their first child, a son. This news was confirmed via a statement released by his agency, with the couple requesting privacy regarding the child's gender and exact birth date. There are no other publicly known children or relationships. As of 2026, Kusanagi is married and living with his wife and infant son in Tokyo. [edit]

Research by the iFANN Editorial Team puts Tsuyoshi Kusanagi's fortune at around $14 million. His wealth stems from a diverse portfolio of long-term endorsements, real estate holdings, and consistent acting fees. He holds lucrative contracts with major brands like Suntory, Sony, and Toyota, which likely generate between $1 million and $2 million annually. Kusanagi owns multiple properties in Tokyo and possibly a villa in rural areas, valued at over $5 million.

His acting career commands significant fees, ranging from ¥50 million to ¥100 million per drama episode and variety special. Additionally, he earns ongoing royalties from the SMAP catalog sales and his own solo releases. Minor investments in production companies and potential equity in talent agencies post-SMAP contribute to his financial stability. The iFANN Editorial Team estimates his net worth based on these verified income streams and asset valuations. [edit]

Tsuyoshi Kusanagi has received numerous accolades for his acting prowess, particularly in the last decade. He won the Japan Academy Prize for Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role and the Mainichi Film Award for Best Actor for his transformative role in Midnight Swan. Earlier in his career, he received the Elan d'Or Award for Newcomer of the Year in 2006. He has also won multiple TV Drama Academy Awards for Best Actor in dramas such as Kizuna and Yae's Sakura. [edit]