Sasaki Nozomi (佐々木希) was appointed as the new image character for Sakihokore, Akita Prefecture's branded rice. At the same time, concern has spread over the health of Dan Mitsu (壇蜜), the original character.
On 19 October, Sasaki Nozomi (佐々木希) was appointed as the new image character for Sakihokore, Akita Prefecture's branded rice. It was reported that, with this appointment, Dan Mitsu (壇蜜)'s tenure as the original character ended after approximately 4 years.
Dan Mitsu (壇蜜) had reportedly attracted attention for fluctuations in her health since 2023 and repeatedly entered and left hospital. She has explained that she experienced physical and mental health problems in 2023 after the deaths of her grandmother and a cat she had kept for many years. Her condition continued to be reported after her return to work, and she reportedly reduced the frequency of her television appearances.
As of September 2025, she was said to have reduced her workload, including leaving “Otaku Makoto Golden Radio!”, where she had been a regular for 7.5 years. At the same time, she was exploring different forms of activity by updating her blog daily and making occasional appearances on documentaries and YouTube programs.
While some expressed concern for Dan Mitsu (壇蜜)'s health following the appointment of the new character, the response to Sasaki Nozomi (佐々木希)'s appointment was largely positive.