Popular model/talento Rinka (32) is to release her first pop single in 11 years. “Millions Kisses” is to go on sale on the Avex label in July and will include a DVD. The jacket for the new single includes a bikini poster and a selection of sexy photos. Rinka made her singing debut in 1993 but last released anything in 1995. She has been something of a pioneer for the current crop of fashion models who are crossing over to the TV circuit. The timing of the new release is no doubt related to the growing number of singers using sex appeal as their main marketing weapon. The leader in the field is currently Koda Kumi (23), but she’s recently been joined by former CC Girls member Aota Noriko (38) and pin-up girl Kumada Yoko (23).
• It was revealed yesterday that TV Asahi announcers Murakami Yuko (27) and Nishiwaki Kyosuke (35) got married on April 29. In a regular corner on yesterday’s “Yajiuma Plus” early morning show, Nishiwaki presented the day’s newspaper headlines and, red-faced with embarrassment, included one from the sports papers about his own marriage.
• NTV announcer Osugi Kimie (42) is five months pregnant with her first child. She and her husband, who is nine years younger, have been married for four years. Osugi was previously married from 1996 to 2001 to an entrepreneur who was two years younger.
• Actor Odagiri Jo (30) is to make an appearance at Cannes for the second year in a row and the third time since 2003. His new movie “Yureru” will be shown as part of the Director’s Week at the 59th Cannes International Film Festival, which runs from May 17-28. The movie, directed by Nishikawa Miwa, is scheduled to open here in July.