Ahead of the group's 18th anniversary, Hey! Say! JUMP member Yuto Nakajima has announced his graduation from the group effective on 28, August 2025. In the statement issued by his agency STARTO ENTERTAINMENT, he is leaving the group to pursue "independent activities" with an emphasis on his acting career.

In the statement, Nakajima also provides his own statement apologizing to fans for the sudden announcement and that he won't be present at an upcoming performance on 31, August 2025. The group also issued a statement supporting his decision and ensuring fans that they are focusing on delivering their best as their 20th anniversary approaches.

Nakajima has been active as an actor for much of his career, with starring roles in several movies and television dramas over the years, most recently as the lead in the drama adaptation of Himitsu - Top Secret. This pivot from music to focusing on acting full time should afford him much more time to appear in projects so we anticipate seeing him again soon.

You can see the full announcement and statements from all parties on the official STARTO ENTERTAINMENT website.