Fans were left in shock at the news of Miho Nakayama’s death at the age of 54 last week.
The singer and actress, who was born in Tokyo, was found dead in a bathtub at her home on Friday.
Now her cause of death has been determined, with Scmp reporting the late star died “due to an unexpected accident,” with a statement being shared on her official website.
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“It was found that the cause of her death was due to an unexpected accident that occurred while bathing,” the statement on her website reportedly reads.
Nakayama was known for her work in the show Maido Osawagase Shimasu and Love Letter.
The Love Letter star, whose first rose to fame as a J-pop singer in the ’80s, was discovered by a member of her management company, according to The Japan Times.
“It is with deepest regret that we have to make this sudden announcement to all those who have been involved with [Nakayama’s career] and to the fans who have supported her,” a statement from her management company, published on Nakayama’s website, read.
“It has happened so suddenly that we are also stunned and saddened by the news.”
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On Friday, the performer had cancelled a solo Christmas show scheduled to take place, citing health reasons.
She had been active on Instagram earlier in the week, with her last post – a photo of an artwork from a Louise Bourgeois exhibit – shared on Thursday.
The director of Love Letter, Shunji Iwai, shared a tribute to the late star following her death, writing on X that they had “so many emotions” over the news
“We had promised to make a pilgrimage to the snow-covered Otaru together in 2025 – for your 40th debut anniversary and the 30th anniversary of Love Letter,” Iwai wrote.
“And then this news of your sudden passing. With so many emotions swirling inside – frustration, deep regret…I am yet unable to give formal words of remembrance… Tonight, though only in spirit, I wish to be by your side.”
Nakayama entered the entertainment industry aged 12, and first became famous as a J-pop singer during the ’80s.
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Her first single, C, was released in 1985. Her last studio album – and her first in two decades – was released in 2019.
Nakayama then moved into acting.
Her performance in the acclaimed 1995 film Love Letter – released internationally under the title When I Close My Eyes – cemented her as a huge star of the screen.
In 1998, she was nominated for the Japan Academy Prize for her performance in Tokyo Biyori.
She was also known for films including Goodbye, Someday, Bee Bop High School and Love of Sage.
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