TOKYO – May 28, 2026 – COVER Corporation, the parent company of the popular VTuber group Holostars, announced today that several prominent members will be concluding their streaming activities under the Holostars banner. The departures, scheduled to occur between June 8 and July 10, represent a notable transition for the male-oriented VTuber agency, which has seen substantial growth and development since its inception.
The individuals involved in this wave of departures include Hanasaki Miyabi, Kishido Temma, Rikka, Arurandeisu, Minase Rio, and Kageyama Shien. Their final scheduled broadcasts are set for June 8, June 8, June 9, June 10, June 25, and July 10, respectively. This announcement follows a period of internal restructuring within COVER Corporation, details of which were initially shared on April 3, 2026, concerning the operational framework of Holostars Japan.
While several talents will be departing from active streaming under the Holostars umbrella, the agency has clarified that a core group of members will continue their activities. These include Kanade Isuru, Astel Leda, Yukoku Roberu, Aragami Oga, Yatogami Fuma, and Utsugi Uyu. Their continued presence signifies an ongoing commitment to the Holostars brand and its future direction.
Furthermore, the announcement provided specific details regarding members involved in the PolaPoriPosuPo band project. Rikka and Kageyama Shien will reportedly continue their involvement with the musical unit, indicating that their creative endeavors may extend beyond their individual streaming careers under Holostars. This suggests a nuanced approach to talent management, allowing for continued participation in specific projects even as primary roles evolve.
A Timeline of Departures and Transitions
The scheduled farewell streams mark a significant point in the history of Holostars, a talent agency that has cultivated a dedicated fanbase through its diverse roster of virtual personalities. The dates for these final broadcasts are as follows:
- June 8, 2026: Hanasaki Miyabi and Kishido Temma will host their final streams.
- June 9, 2026: Rikka’s final stream is scheduled.
- June 10, 2026: Arurandeisu will conduct his last broadcast.
- June 25, 2026: Minase Rio’s farewell stream will take place.
- July 10, 2026: Kageyama Shien will host his final stream.
These dates represent distinct moments for fans to engage with their favorite talents one last time in their current capacity. The staggered schedule allows for individual send-offs and potentially facilitates a smoother transition for both the talents and the agency.
Background: Holostars’ Growth and COVER Corporation’s Strategic Adjustments
Holostars was launched by COVER Corporation in May 2018 as a male-oriented counterpart to their highly successful Hololive VTuber group. The agency has since expanded its roster, introduced new concepts, and developed a significant international following. Its members engage in a variety of content, including gaming, singing, chatting, and collaborative projects, fostering a strong sense of community among their viewers.
The announcement of talent departures is not unprecedented in the dynamic VTuber industry. However, the scale and timing of this particular transition, following COVER Corporation’s April 3 statement regarding operational restructuring, suggest a broader strategic recalibration. While the specifics of the April announcement were not detailed in the initial release, it is reasonable to infer that these talent changes are a direct consequence of those organizational shifts. Such restructurings often aim to optimize resource allocation, refine content strategies, and adapt to evolving market demands.
COVER Corporation has consistently demonstrated a proactive approach to talent management and brand development. The company’s success with Hololive, which has become a global phenomenon, provides a strong foundation for its strategic decisions concerning Holostars. The decision to adjust the Holostars lineup could be indicative of a renewed focus on specific talent archetypes, a push towards new project initiatives, or a strategic consolidation of resources to enhance the overall strength of the remaining roster.
Supporting Data and Industry Context
The VTuber market has experienced exponential growth in recent years, with companies like COVER Corporation leading the charge. The global VTuber market size was estimated to be valued at approximately USD 4.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 15% from 2024 to 2030, according to various market research reports. This growth is driven by increasing internet penetration, the rising popularity of anime and gaming culture, and the unique interactive experiences offered by virtual YouTubers.
Holostars, as a prominent player in this market, has contributed to this growth. The agency’s ability to cultivate distinct personalities and engage with fans through various digital platforms has been key to its success. The departures announced today, while significant, occur within a context of a booming industry, suggesting that the agency is strategically positioning itself for continued relevance and expansion.
The concept of VTubers engaging in musical projects, like the PolaPoriPosuPo band, is also a growing trend. This diversification of content beyond traditional streaming helps to broaden appeal and create new revenue streams. The fact that Rikka and Kageyama Shien will continue with PolaPoriPosuPo highlights the agency’s commitment to nurturing talent in multiple creative avenues.
Inferred Reactions and Broader Implications
While official statements from the departing talents themselves have not been released at the time of this report, it is common for VTubers to express their gratitude to their fans and the agency upon concluding their activities. These farewell messages often convey a mix of emotions, including appreciation for the experiences gained and anticipation for future endeavors. Fans, in turn, are likely to express their sadness at the departures while also offering support for the talents’ next steps.
The implications of these departures for Holostars are multifaceted. On one hand, the loss of established talents can lead to a temporary dip in viewership and engagement for those specific members. However, it also presents an opportunity for the remaining talents to shine and for the agency to introduce new members or evolve its content strategy. The continued presence of a strong core roster suggests that Holostars intends to maintain its momentum.
COVER Corporation’s strategic decisions regarding Holostars are closely watched by industry observers. The company’s proven track record suggests that these changes are part of a well-considered plan. The restructuring and talent adjustments are likely aimed at strengthening the Holostars brand for long-term sustainability and growth in an increasingly competitive VTuber landscape. The focus on retaining and promoting certain talents, while allowing others to transition, demonstrates a nuanced approach to managing its diverse roster of virtual entertainers.
As the dates for the final streams approach, the Holostars community will undoubtedly be preparing to bid farewell to their beloved members and celebrate their contributions to the agency. The future of Holostars, with its evolving lineup and strategic direction, remains a subject of keen interest within the global VTuber community.
