EXILE's HIRO to retire as performer but to retain leader role from next year

EXILE's leader HIRO will stop his activities as a performer of the group by the end of the year but will continue to be the leader as announced on 2 April. Besides this, he will continue to be the president of EXILE's agency LDH while concentrating on grooming new artistes. HIRO used to be a member of dance-vocal group ZOO in the 90s before it disbanded in 1995. He made his debut again as part of J Soul Brothers in 1999 before EXILE was formed and became successful later. There will be no plans for EXILE to bring in new members after HIRO's departure.

Source: Sanspo