Japanese YouTubers Pretended to Be Lovers After They Broke up for More Views

Otahika Channel

Ota, one-half of the famous Japanese YouTube couple “Otahika” (おたひか), has revealed he’s been battling depression.

On March 25, Hikaru Urinishi and Ota, who run a popular YouTube channel with 420,000 subscribers, announced in a video that they are mentally going through a tough time.

Urinishi appeared in the video, Ota by his side. “Everyone,” he began, his voice thick with emotion, “Ota is back.” He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. “He hasn’t left the house or spoken to anyone for two and a half months. But he’s feeling a little better now. We decided to make this video to update you all.” A smile, tinged with relief, spread across Urinishi’s face.

Ota then spoke, his voice slightly lighter. “Has my appearance changed?” he asked, apologizing to their viewers. “I’m truly sorry for causing everyone worry.” He continued, explaining, “In December last year, I did a live broadcast that triggered a panic attack. The shock lingered, and when I didn’t improve over time, I sought help at the hospital.”

Sharing his diagnosis, Ota revealed he was struggling with both panic disorder and depression. He described the depression as reaching a point where he questioned his purpose in life. He further explained that any form of work-related or personal contact became overwhelmingly stressful, leading him to disconnect by turning off his phone. This period highlights the significant mental health challenges he’s been facing.

In December 2023, Ota and Urinishi posted a video on their YouTube channel titled “We’re retiring from YouTube due to too much exposure.” This was their last update before a period of silence. On March 18, Urinishi uploaded another video expressing his concern: “I can’t get in touch with Ota.”

Ota and Hikaru Urinishi started dating after appearing on a reality dating show, “Can I Fall in Love Again?” on Amoeba Channel. They started dating in March 2019, and immediately after, they started the Otahika YouTube channel to share their daily life vlogs.

The couple’s decision to continue portraying themselves as a couple for six months after their separation drew criticism from viewers. They have since clarified their relationship as friends and business partners, with Urinishi moving on to a new romantic relationship.