Just one month prior, fans of vtuber Uruha Rushia were celebrating her birthday, but now — just 5 months shy of the 3rd anniversary of her debut — COVER has put out a statement regarding Uruha Rushia’s termination. Among the alleged reasons for her early retirement, breaking contract by leaking sensitive “false” information is the most damning. As of now, it is unknown what information was spread that led to her termination.
COVER alleges that the company suffered reputational damages due to Rushia’s actions. While apologetic in their press statement to fans, they allege that there was no other solution for both parties and that they were forced to part ways with Uruha Rushia.
By the end of March, Rushia’s Youtube channel will be taken down. COVER has also stated that they will contact fans regarding refunds for the vtubers birthday merchandise.
What have Uruha Rushia’s peers said about the allegations?
Unsurprisingly, many of Uruha Rushia’s Hololive peers are sad to see her go. English vtuber, Mori Calliope, wished fans well while announcing a day off from streaming:
I don’t even know what to say right now. I’m cancelling tomorrow’s stream, I feel sick to my stomach. Please take care of yourselves.
Mori Calliope
Shiranui Flare, Shirakami Fubuki, and Tsunomaki Watame briefly addressed COVER’s statement during their Bakatare collab event. Discussion was brief — possibly due to the nature of the serious allegations — but the overall sentiment has been for fans to remain positive.
All I can say is I want all my fans to enjoy today’s Bakatare live. I know it’s difficult for some of you right now. Still, I want you to smile at Hololive again
Shirakami Fubuki
Even though there are now only four of us in the 3rd generation, I’d be happy if everyone could support us as we continue to work hard together.
Shiranui Flare
Who is Uruha Rushia?
Debuting on July 18th 2019 as part of the third generation of Hololive vtubers, Uruha Rushia — a soft-spoken necromancer whose wrath knows no bounds when Dark Souls is involved — was quickly a fan favorite. Notably, Rushia still holds the record for most super chats on Youtube worldwide (and not just among vtubers).
For COVER to terminate her perhaps speaks volumes to the severity of the alleged leak. In previous circumstances, Hololive vtubers have been given ‘graduation’ ceremonies when parting ways with COVER. That Uruha Rushia hasn’t been given a graduation send-off comes at the dismay of many fans who may never get to experience one last stream with their favorite vtuber.
It is worth noting that COVER owns the intellectual property to the character Rushia so chances of a future comeback are unlikely. Rumors have circulated that the host behind Rushia may return with their own original character. As of now, nothing has been confirmed.