When diving into the captivating world of Oshi no Ko, it's easy for character names to sometimes get a little tangled, especially with popular names in anime. While many fans might be curious about "Ichigo Kurosaki" and his age in Oshi no Ko, it's important to clarify that Ichigo Kurosaki is the protagonist from Bleach. The character you're likely thinking of in Oshi no Ko is Ichigo Saitou, a profoundly influential figure in the series.
So, how old is Ichigo Saitou? Based on authoritative estimations within the series' context, Ichigo Saitou is believed to be in his mid to late 40s. This makes him one of the eldest, and certainly the most senior, among the main and major supporting characters we follow. His age gives him a seasoned perspective on the cutthroat entertainment industry, and his journey reflects years of experience, success, and profound loss. To truly appreciate the depth of his character and influence, you'll want to in our dedicated guide.
Unpacking the Man: Ichigo Saitou's Enduring Legacy
Ichigo Saitou isn't just a supporting character; he's a foundational pillar of the Oshi no Ko narrative. As the former and current president of Ichigo Production, Inc., his decisions, passions, and even his despair have shaped the destinies of numerous idols, most notably the legendary Ai Hoshino. His name itself, "Ichigo," meaning "one" and "protect," and also a playful wordplay on "strawberry," subtly hints at his protective, pioneering spirit in the idol world.
His journey is inextricably linked to the very fabric of the entertainment industry depicted in the series. From humble beginnings, he built a company that scouted immense talent, forever changing the landscape of idol groups like B-Komachi. Discover the full chronicle of his company's rise, fall, and eventual return in .
The Tragedy of Ai Hoshino and Its Profound Impact
Ichigo Saitou's life took a dramatic turn following the tragic death of his prized star, Ai Hoshino. This devastating event plunged him into a deep depression, leading him to abandon Ichigo Production, Inc. and retreat into a secluded life. His passion for idol production, once a fierce competitive drive, seemed to vanish, replaced by grief and disillusionment.
Ai's untimely demise wasn't just a personal blow for Ichigo; it sent ripples through the entire Oshi no Ko universe, directly influencing the paths of other key characters. To understand the full scope of this pivotal event and Ai's indelible mark, we highly recommend you .
A Shared Quest: Ichigo, Aqua, and the Search for Truth
Despite his retreat, Ichigo Saitou's drive for justice never truly faded. Much like Aquamarine Hoshino, he quietly began his own investigation into the true culprits behind Ai's death. This shared, albeit separate, pursuit of vengeance highlights the deep paternal connection he felt for Ai and his desire to protect her legacy.
Their parallel investigations form a significant emotional core of the series. For a comprehensive look into Aqua's relentless pursuit of answers and what drives him, be sure to .
The Saitou Family: A Dynamic Duo at Ichigo Production
While Ichigo was adrift in his despair, his wife, Miyako Saitou, stepped up to assume his responsibilities at Ichigo Production. Miyako, estimated to be in her mid to late 30s, proved to be a formidable and capable leader, holding the company together during its darkest times. It was her unwavering resolve, and a dash of shrewd blackmail, that eventually facilitated Ichigo's return to his presidential duties.
Miyako's resilience and strategic thinking are just as vital to the company's survival as Ichigo's initial vision. Her unwavering support and sharp business acumen deserve recognition. You can in our in-depth guide.
Evolution of an Idol Producer: From Retreat to Resurgence
Ichigo's personal turmoil was visibly reflected in his physical appearance. Initially, he presented a sharp, professional image with short blonde hair and a suit. After Ai's death, his unkempt, neck-length hair and darker attire spoke volumes about his inner state. However, his eventual re-engagement with the industry, especially when Ruby Hoshino sought his guidance, marked a return to his original, business-ready appearance.
This transformation wasn't merely cosmetic; it symbolized a rekindled spark of his former passion. When advising Ruby, a flicker of his competitive nature and strategic genius for idol production resurfaced, proving that even after profound loss, the drive to create stars remained. To witness how his guidance shapes the next generation, you'll want to .
Comparing Generations: Ichigo Saitou's Age Among Oshi no Ko Characters
As we've established, Ichigo Saitou stands out as the eldest among the main and major supporting characters, placing him in a unique position of experience and wisdom. This contrast with the younger, burgeoning talents he mentors is a key dynamic in Oshi no Ko.
For a clear picture of how Ichigo's age compares to the vibrant cast around him, here's a brief look at some other central figures:
- Ai Hoshino: Began at 16, reached 20 by the time of her death.
- Aquamarine Hoshino: Approximately 16 years old at the story's start.
- Ruby Hoshino: Also around 16 years old at the story's beginning.
- Kana Arima: Started at 17, now around 18 in recent chapters.
- Akane Kurokawa: Noted as approximately 17 years old.
- Mem-Cho: Her exact age is unknown, but she's presumed to be in her mid to late 20s, much older than her youthful appearance suggests.
Understanding these age differences helps contextualize the relationships, responsibilities, and emotional arcs within the series. For a more comprehensive breakdown, including character heights and specific chapter references, make sure to check out .
Ichigo Saitou's age and vast experience in the entertainment world paint a picture of a man who has seen it all—the dazzling highs and the devastating lows. His journey is a testament to resilience, a quiet strength that continues to influence the future of Ichigo Production and the next generation of idols. As the series unfolds, his wisdom and unique perspective will undoubtedly play an even more crucial role in shaping the destinies of those around him.