Iwata Takanori Leaves EXILE, Shirahama Alan Takes Hiatus Ahead of 2025 Tour

After more than a decade with EXILE, two longtime members are making big changes to their careers. While one will part ways with the group for good, the other is taking a temporary break.

Iwata Takanori, who joined EXILE in 2014, announced that he would be leaving the group to fully focus on his acting career, solo projects, and his work with Sandaime J Soul Brothers. Both groups are part of the larger EXILE TRIBE under agency LDH.

Sharing his feelings with fans, Takanori said, “EXILE was my youth and my dream. The days and memories I made as part of the group are something I’ll always be proud of.” His heartfelt message made it clear that while he is moving on professionally, the group will always hold a special place in his life.

Fans hoping to catch him live at EXILE’s upcoming LIVE TOUR 2025 ‘THE REASON’ will be disappointed, as he won’t be taking part in the performances.

Takanori won’t be the only one absent from the stage this time around. Fellow member Shirahama Alan has also revealed that he will be putting his EXILE activities on pause. However, unlike Takanori, Alan’s break is temporary.

Alan has been managing a busy schedule across multiple projects. He plans to focus his energy on GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE, where he is also a member, and PKCZ(R), a creative collective blending music, fashion, and other art forms.

The group’s much-anticipated LIVE TOUR 2025 ‘THE REASON’ is set to kick off on November 15 and will run through December 28, 2025. With both Takanori and Alan stepping back, it will be an emotional tour for both the group and its fans.