Yuri Nakamura Dies: Star Of Netflix Series ‘Romantics Anonymous’ Was 44

Yuri Nakamura, the Japanese-Korean star of Netflix original series Romantics Anonymous, has died at the age of 44.

Nakamura’s representatives at Alpha Agency published a statement announcing that the actress died of rectal cancer on September 1.

“We express our deepest gratitude for the kindness shown to her during her lifetime and respectfully announce her passing,” the statement said, per a Google translation.

Nakamura played psychologist Irene in Romantics Anonymous, a Japanese original series about a talented chocolatier (Han Hyo-joo) who takes a job at a small chocolate store despite extreme shyness.

Based on the French-Belgian film of the same name, Romantics Anonymous has amassed 103 million views on Netflix since its premiere in October 2025. It rose to number one on Netflix’s Japanese series chart.

Nakamura’s other credits include Love Letter From Heaven (2007), Like Father, Like Son (2013), and The 8-Year Engagement (2017). Illness forced her to withdraw from NHK drama Dangerous, according to Japan Daily.

Alpha Agency said Nakamura was first diagnosed with cancer in 2013, but did not disclose details about her illness. The cancer went into remission, but was discovered again in January 2025 and the disease had metastasised.

She was told in August that she had only a short time to live, per the Alpha Agency statement. “She remained calm, maintaining a beautiful and gentle smile throughout her final moments with her family and loved ones,” Alpha Agency added.

“While her 30s and 40s were often marked by battles with illness, she also experienced many wonderful encounters, happiness, and fulfilling moments. We express our heartfelt gratitude once again to all the fans who have warmly supported her, the staff who have helped her, and her fellow performers.”