In a surprising move, Japanese entertainment industry icons, comedian JOY and TV personality Mai Watanabe have announced their decision to go independent. The couple, who have contributed immensely to the industry over the years, are set to usher in a new era of entertainment. While the details of their independent venture are not yet released, it's evident that the decision marks a significant moment in their careers.

In Japan, it's common for entertainers to be tied to talent agencies, which manage their work, appearances, and public perception minutely. The decision to go independent, especially for highly visible celebrities like JOY and Mai Watanabe, represents a significant deviation from the norm. In the Japanese context, their announcement has the potential to impact industry norms and inspire other artists to consider similar paths.

In the US or EU, there has been a growing trend of artists declaring independence from large labels or agencies. These artists often leverage the power of social media and digital platforms to engage with their audience directly, without the filter of a managing agency. The move by JOY and Mai Watanabe can be likened to this trend, signifying the merging of global entertainment norms.