Just one episode turned a character I found grating into someone incredible, leaving a strong impression and stirring deep empathy in me.

A Mother’s Day Spotlight

This week’s episode had some fascinating details. Airing around Japan’s “Mother’s Day” (May 12), Miiko’s story draws inspiration from real-life societal tales: women who, despite having children, still chase careers in idol work, entertainment, or acting. Especially in idol culture—or even among vtubers pursuing idol dreams—dating or having a boyfriend is already a taboo that can tarnish an image and derail a career, let alone having a child.

YoruKura keeps flexing its strengths, not just focusing on the circumstances and ambitions of young people in society but diving deeper into “hot-button,” tough-to-discuss topics. Miiko may no longer be young, yet she still nurtures her dream of becoming an idol. More importantly, she proves herself an amazing mother—single-handedly raising her daughter, juggling multiple jobs to ensure her little girl has a full, uncompromised life, no less than anyone else’s. People might doubt or judge Miiko, whispering that she’s “too old” to be an idol or pointing to her having a child. But in her daughter’s eyes, she’s a perfect mom—devoted, loving, and a strong woman. It’s never too late to chase your passion, no matter what society says.

Breaking the Mold

I’m not sure if it’s a coincidence, but the episode wraps up with Miiko “going against” the rigid expectations society heaps on idols. She boldly announces to everyone that she has a daughter, posts pictures of them together on social media, and beams with pride over it. Her story echoes Otsuka Ray (a real-life vtuber) who, not long ago, held a “virtual live” performance alongside her own daughter.

It might take a while longer for the idea that “idols don’t need to be single, can date, or have families” to gain widespread acceptance, especially in Japanese society. But by daring to tackle this, to challenge the usual assumptions and judgments tied to the idol world (and the broader sense of being out of place in society), the show carves out a unique and captivating charm.