Actress Yuri Nakamura died on September 1 from rectal cancer at age 44, her talent agency announced on September 14, confirming a private funeral had already been held with close family, fellow actors, and staff. According to the agency's statement, Nakamura first developed cancer 13 years ago, choosing with her agency president to keep the diagnosis private to avoid unnecessarily worrying industry colleagues. She subsequently achieved remission, continuing her beloved acting work while maintaining regular checkups.
However, cancer returned in January last year; though surgery was successful, metastasis was later discovered, making full remission unlikely from that point onward. On July 13, she announced an intestinal obstruction diagnosis and withdrew from the upcoming NHK drama "Dangerous," starring Riho Yoshioka, set to premiere in January. Her agency had described her recovery as progressing at the time, though production ultimately could not wait for her return