In a heartfelt announcement that has left fans reeling, Gawr Gura, the beloved VTuber from hololive English (EN), revealed during a live stream on April 16, 2025, that she will graduate from the company on May 1, 2025. The reason behind this decision, she explained, is a divergence in operational direction with the company.
Gura, a member of the first generation of hololive EN known as HoloMyth, has captured the hearts of millions with her charming persona and engaging content. Since her debut on September 13, 2020, she has amassed an impressive 4.56 million subscribers, making her one of the most popular VTubers globally. Her unique character, a shark girl descended from Atlantis, has become iconic, characterized by her shark hood and playful demeanor.
In her emotional farewell, Gura reflected on her journey, stating, “It has been an honor to be everyone’s little shark.” She expressed gratitude to her fans, acknowledging their support as a crucial factor in her success. Gura admitted that she had little experience in live streaming, dancing, or singing prior to joining hololive, and the pressure from expectations was initially overwhelming. However, she found joy in performing and connecting with her audience.
During the live stream, which drew over 200,000 viewers, Gura also mentioned her recent hiatus and the challenges she faced, including health issues and the stress associated with her career. After a significant break, she returned to streaming on April 13, 2025, playing the game R.E.P.O. She shared that she had been busy caring for a new kitten and managing the pressures of her work.
Despite the bittersweet nature of her announcement, Gura hinted at a new project on the horizon, encouraging her fans to remain positive about the future. “I hope everyone can be positive about what comes next,” she said, looking forward to what lies ahead.
Gura’s influence extends beyond her streaming career. In 2023, she was appointed as one of the Tokyo Tourism Ambassadors, further solidifying her status as a cultural icon. She has participated in various collaborations, including appearances at pop-up cafes and events such as the ‘hololive Meet SUPER KARAOKE PARTY @ TAIPEI 2024,’ where she headlined the show, bringing joy to fans.
The announcement of her graduation has sparked an outpouring of support from her fanbase, known as “chumbuds.” Many took to social media to express their sadness and appreciation for the joy she has brought into their lives. Gura’s initial tweet, featuring just the letter “a,” became a meme that resonated with fans worldwide, marking the beginning of her extraordinary journey in the VTuber community.
As Gura prepares to take this next step, hololive’s parent company, COVER, released a statement thanking her for her contributions and acknowledging the impact she has had on fans around the world. They expressed their gratitude for her role in the growth of hololive production and wished her success in her future endeavors.
Gura’s graduation marks the end of an era for both her and her fans, as she has been a pivotal figure in bringing VTuber culture to a broader audience, especially in the English-speaking world. Her unique blend of charm, talent, and humor has made her a standout performer, and her absence will be felt deeply in the community.
With her graduation date set for May 1, 2025, fans are left to reflect on the memories and moments shared with Gura over the years. As they await her final performances, many are hopeful that her next chapter will be just as bright and fulfilling.
In a world where digital personas often fade quickly, Gura’s legacy as a pioneer in the VTuber space is sure to endure. Her journey has inspired countless others to pursue their passions, and her impact will be felt for years to come.
