Nevertheless, the unspoken rule of the Japanese idol industry is the "eternal purity clause." Once an idol, always an idol in the public psyche. The management team at AKS (now Vernalossom) released a terse, generic statement: "We are aware of reports regarding a former member. As she is no longer affiliated with our company, we have no comment. We wish her well in her new endeavors."
The Shot Heard Round the Wota: STAR-409 – Risa Tachibana’s AV Debut and the Takamatsu Eri Connection STAR-409 Risa Tachibana AV debut -AKB Member Takamatsu Eri-
As news of Eri's AV debut spread, the public's reaction was mixed. Some fans felt betrayed, while others were supportive, appreciating her courage to pursue her desires. Eri's decision sparked a national conversation about the pressures faced by idols, the stigma surrounding the AV industry, and the importance of personal freedom. Nevertheless, the unspoken rule of the Japanese idol