On April 16, 2025, Gawr Gura, a popular VTuber affiliated with Hololive English, announced her upcoming graduation from the agency during a live stream on her official YouTube channel at 11:30 AM Japan time. Hololive Production, which operates the VTuber agency, confirmed that Gura’s last day with Hololive English will be May 1, 2025.
Gura, who began her activities in the English-speaking VTuber community in September 2020, has amassed an impressive following, with over 4.56 million subscribers as of the announcement date. In an approximately eight-minute video, she expressed her gratitude to her fans and apologized for any anxiety her announcement may have caused.
In the video, Gura stated, “It means a lot to me that you are all here,” before proceeding to deliver the news. She read from notes to ensure she covered all necessary points succinctly, revealing that her decision to leave was due to “differences in direction with management.” This statement has raised questions among fans regarding the internal dynamics at Hololive.
Reflecting on her time with the agency, Gura shared her experiences since debuting as part of the Hololive English group known as Myth. She reminisced about joining alongside four other talented members whom she admired. Despite having no prior experience in singing or dancing, Gura found herself thrust into the spotlight, which brought both excitement and unexpected stress.
Gura recounted that the pressure of meeting high expectations took a toll on her health, leading to difficulties with eating and moments of extreme stress. “There were days when I couldn’t swallow food and would vomit,” she admitted, highlighting the challenges that come with fame.
Despite these hardships, Gura expressed her appreciation for the unwavering support from her community, which helped her overcome obstacles she never thought she could face. She concluded her announcement with a heartfelt message, saying, “Thank you for making me a small shark,” a reference to her character’s theme.
The announcement of Gura’s graduation has sparked a flurry of reactions from fans and the broader VTuber community. Many fans took to social media to express their sadness but also their understanding of her decision. One fan tweeted, “We will always support you, Gura! Thank you for the memories!”
In addition to her graduation announcement, Hololive Production has outlined the next steps for her fans. According to the agency, fan letters will be accepted until May 1, 2025, and membership content will continue until August 1, 2025. Details regarding Gura-related merchandise will be announced separately through the official Hololive shop.
Gura’s impact on the VTuber landscape has been significant, especially in the English-speaking market. As a member of Hololive English, she played a vital role in expanding the agency’s reach and popularity outside of Japan. Her unique charm and entertaining streams have garnered her a loyal fanbase, making her one of the standout figures in the VTuber scene.
As the date of her graduation approaches, fans are left to ponder the future of Gura and what her next steps might entail. Will she continue to create content independently, or will she take a break from the spotlight? Only time will tell.
In the meantime, her fans are rallying together to celebrate her achievements and contributions to the VTuber community. Many have begun sharing their favorite moments from her streams, creating a sense of nostalgia as they reflect on the joy she has brought over the years.
Gura’s departure from Hololive English marks the end of an era for many fans who have followed her journey since the beginning. As she embarks on this new chapter, her supporters remain hopeful for her future endeavors, whatever they may be.
In a world where digital personas have become increasingly popular, Gura’s story serves as a reminder of the pressures and challenges that come with being a public figure. Her candidness about her struggles has resonated with many, and her legacy in the VTuber community will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
As the VTuber landscape continues to evolve, Gura’s graduation is a poignant reminder of the transient nature of entertainment. Fans are left to cherish the memories created during her time with Hololive and look forward to what lies ahead for this beloved shark.
