Veteran Japanese Actor Falls For College Student 41 Years Younger

62-year-old actor Kenji Haga has become a hot topic for overcoming a 41-year age gap to begin a relationship with a 21-year-old college student who has no dating experience.

On May 14th, Haga appeared on AbemaTV’s Love Hyena 2 (Ai No Hyena) and became the final couple with a 21-year-old female college student. Haga shed tears of joy, followed by the two sharing a hug and a kiss.

Love Hyena 2 is a dating show that reveals human desires with love as its theme and is known in Korea as the Japanese version of Netflix’s I Am Solo.

The final episode titled “Pure Love Last Chance” was aired that day. Tsukiha (21), a music student who previously shared she had no dating experience, shockingly chose Haga (62) who is 41 years older. The two grew closer while enjoying a hot spring together, but Tsukiha could not hide her disappointment at Haga’s excessive inappropriate remarks during a group meal.

During the segment of men giving necklaces with their initials to their women of interest, Haga gave a necklace to Tsukiha, but she did not wear it. She pointed out that “Haga’s inappropriate remarks are too much,” when asked about her decision. Haga caused laughter by quickly repenting, “I promise I’ll do better, I’ll try my best.”

On the final selection day, Haga appeared awkwardly dressed in a white suit. Tsukiha then emerged in a white dress reminiscent of a wedding gown. The hosts of the show expressed anticipation, sharing “If the two choose each other in the end, it’ll be the start of an exciting new couple.”

Haga first broke the silence with, “It might look strange at this age, but my eyes have opened for you. I’ve thought a lot today. I hope we can continue to get to know each other.” His straightforwardness added anxious anticipation.

Tsukiha accepted his confession, saying, “I thought you were a pure and cool person. I also look forward to our relationship.”

After the final selection, Tsukiha rushed to Haga and hugged him. Haga, shedding tears of joy, said, “Wait a minute, I’m crying.” Afterward, he kissed Tsukiha on her forehead and hugged her again, declaring, “I’m really happy. I’ll cherish you.”