Ryucheru Biography: Divorce, Age, Ex-Wife, Net Worth, Kids, Death, Height, Legacy, TV Shows, YouTube

Ryucheru was a Japanese model, singer, and television personality who rose to national prominence as one of the most visible figures in Japan’s genderless fashion movement.

They became a household name in 2015 after appearing on variety television alongside their partner, Peco, where their high-pitched voice, colorful 1980s-inspired fashion, and expressive personality captured widespread public attention.

They gained recognition for seamlessly blending entertainment with social commentary, using humor and fashion to challenge rigid norms surrounding gender, appearance, and family roles in Japanese society.

Over time, Ryucheru evolved from a Harajuku shop assistant into a major media figure, later becoming an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility, self-expression, and mental health awareness.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Ryuji Higa
• Nickname: Ryucheru
• Date of Birth: September 29, 1995
• Age: Deceased
• Gender: Non-binary
• Place of Birth: Ginowan, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Nationality: Japanese
• Profession: Model, Singer, Television Personality
• Height: 172 cm
• Eye Color: Dark Brown
• Hair Color: Black (frequently dyed blonde or brown)
• Parents: N/A
• Siblings: Chiharu Higa (older sister) and three other siblings
• Spouse: Tetsuko Okuhira (Peco), divorced
• Children: Link Higa
• Relationship Status: Divorced
• Ethnicity: Japanese
• Religion: Shinto
• Net Worth: $2,000,000

Early Life and Education

Ryuji Higa was born on September 29, 1995, in Ginowan, Okinawa Prefecture, and was raised as the youngest of five children. Their older sister, Chiharu Higa, also pursued a career in entertainment as a singer. From an early age, Ryucheru displayed an interest in fashion, makeup, and self-expression, which often made them feel out of place within traditional local expectations of masculinity.

After graduating from high school in Okinawa, they moved to Tokyo to pursue opportunities in fashion. They began working at the Super WeGo clothing store in Harajuku, where immersion in the district’s youth-driven fashion culture became a turning point. The Harajuku environment allowed them to fully express their identity and laid the foundation for their modeling and media career.

Personal Life

Ryucheru’s personal life was closely followed by the public and underwent significant transformation over time. They married fellow model and television personality Tetsuko Okuhira, known as Peco, in December 2016. In July 2018, the couple welcomed their son, Link.

In August 2022, Ryucheru and Peco announced their divorce, explaining that Ryucheru no longer identified with the traditional role of a “husband.” Despite the separation, they emphasized their intention to continue raising their son together as a new form of family.

Ryucheru later publicly came out as non-binary and gender non-conforming, adopting a more feminine public appearance and openly documenting their journey to provide visibility and support for others navigating similar experiences.

Career

Ryucheru’s career began with modeling for Harajuku-based fashion magazines, which quickly led to frequent appearances on Japanese variety television. Their vibrant personality and distinctive style made them a regular guest on popular programs such as Shabekuri 007, solidifying their status as a mainstream media figure.

In 2018, they launched a music career under the name RYUCHELL, releasing songs centered on themes of self-love, individuality, and diversity. Alongside music and television work, Ryucheru hosted web series focused on youth culture and social issues and later used YouTube as a platform to discuss mental health, identity, and the pressures associated with public life. In their later years, they became one of the most recognizable LGBTQ+ voices in Japanese media, participating in pride events and advocacy initiatives.

Net Worth

Ryucheru had an estimated net worth of $2 million. Their income was generated through frequent television appearances, modeling contracts with major fashion brands, music releases, YouTube revenue, and paid speaking engagements.

Death

Ryucheru passed away on July 12, 2023.

Social Media

• Instagram: @ryuzi33world929
• X: @ryuchell929
• TikTok: @ryuchell
• YouTube: @ryuchellworld

Filmography

• Danganronpa The Stage (2016)
• Ryucheru no Oshare Happy (2017)
• Followers (2020)

Discography

• Hands Up!! If You’re Awesome (2018)
• Link (2018)
• Super Candy Boy (2019)
• You Are My Love (2019)