After going through one of the most bitter moments of her professional career, voice actress Tomori Kusunoki has decided to return to the public eye. The 26-year-old performer, known worldwide for voicing Makima in Chainsaw Man, announced on April 13 that she is officially resuming her musical activities after taking a break caused by the incessant wave of harassment she received after announcing her marriage.

The weight of the “idol image” and toxicity in the community

The ordeal for the talented seiyuu began on January 1, when she shared a handwritten note revealing she had married her college boyfriend. Although Kusunoki asked for respect for her husband’s privacy, as he doesn’t belong to the entertainment industry, a radical sector of her followers reacted with irrational fury. Many of these self-proclaimed fans felt betrayed upon seeing the illusion and standard of “idol purity” they associated with her broken.

The controversy escalated to such a degree that social networks were filled with severe criticism, and some users even destroyed merchandise of characters she had portrayed, such as Setsuna Yuki from the popular Love Live! franchise. Fortunately, despite the negative responses, the artist also received unconditional support from much of the otaku community, who perfectly understood her need to take time to enjoy her family life in silence.

A triumphant return with “PRESSED FLOWERS”

Now, just over three months after the incident, Kusunoki shows she’s back to stay. Through her official website, the voice actress and singer-songwriter revealed a new promotional image, the cover photo, and the complete tracklist of her first album in analog vinyl format, titled PRESSED FLOWERS.

Although the musical project had been planned since late last year, this recent April update marks the true restart of her facet as an artist and singer. The album will be available in a limited edition starting June 17. No tour dates or live events have been announced yet, but this first major step has been received as a huge relief for true fans who want to see her succeed while balancing her successful career with her new personal life.