Mitsushima Hikari, a talented individual with a unique blend of Japanese and international heritage, was born in Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, which has been predominantly occupied by the American military since World War II.
Her grandmother's French-American roots added a distinct flavor to her upbringing, and her siblings, a model, a basketball player, and an actor, showcase her family's multifaceted talents.
Mitsushima's entertainment career began in the late 1990s with the band Folder and its all-girl spin-off, Folder 5, where she honed her skills between 1997 and 2003. She then transitioned to acting, taking on occasional roles and dabbling in gravure modeling.
However, it was her consistent acting performances starting from 2009 that truly showcased her talent. Her breakout role in Sion Sono's exotic film Love Exposure earned her widespread recognition and accolades.
Subsequently, Mitsushima starred in the comedy Sawako Decides (2010),written and directed by Yuya Ishii, whom she married in late 2010. Although their union was short-lived, lasting less than six years, it was a significant chapter in her life.
Her performance in Sawako Decides won her the award for Best Actress at the Fantasia Film Festival, with the film itself receiving the award for Best Feature. Throughout her career, Mitsushima has consistently pushed boundaries and explored diverse roles, solidifying her position as a talented and versatile actress.
