It was announced on Getsuku on the official Hello! Project website that Maria Makino of the idol group Morning Musume '26 will be graduating from the group. She will graduate after the "Morning Musume '26 Concert Tour Spring - Rays Of Light -" which starts on April 11th.
The official website explained the circumstances of her graduation, stating, "She herself requested to leave, saying, 'I have been able to fully enjoy my activities with Morning Musume, so I would like to pursue my next dream.' Respecting her wishes, we have reached the conclusion that she should graduate after discussions."
The statement also reads, "Makino has been active for approximately 12 years since joining Morning Musume after being a Hello! Project trainee. She will cherish the time until her graduation and will give her all until the very end, so we ask for your continued support for Makino Maria and Morning Musume '26."
A comment from Makino herself was also included, stating, "After about two years as a Hello! Project trainee and about 12 years as a Morning Musume member, I have decided to graduate from Morning Musume during this spring's tour. I want to firmly imprint the faces of all of you who have supported Makino Maria in my eyes and heart. I also want to enjoy my remaining time as a Morning Musume member more than ever before."
Makino was born on February 2, 2001, making her 25 years old. She hails from Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture. She joined Morning Musume on September 30, 2014, and currently serves as the group's sub-leader. She is also active as a solo model, appearing on the covers of numerous magazines. Known as a fan of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters professional baseball team, she has also made her presence felt in baseball-related work.
