🎭 From Washed-Up Comedian to Booked-and-Busy “Ugly Rental”
Meet Shinohara, a Waseda University graduate and ex-comedian who was once down and out, jobless during the pandemic, and unsure of his future. Despite efforts to make it as a self-deprecating comic, fame never came. Then came a wild suggestion from his roommate:
“You know that guy who rents himself out is going viral? You should do the same—just as an ugly guy.”
And so, the “Rent a Ugly Guy” concept was born.
📱 One Tweet, 36K Likes, and Endless Bookings
Shinohara posted a now-viral message on social media:
“I’m a rent-a-ugly-guy. Just cover my travel costs. Feel free to laugh at my face—just don’t go too hard.”
He included a very straightforward selfie. The result? 36,000 likes, and a flurry of bizarre-yet-touching job requests:
- Nervous women wanting to practice dating
- Adult industry workers needing a safe listener
- Single guys using him as a “wingman”
- Fashion brands hiring him as a “relatable model”
🤝 What Can You Rent an Ugly Guy For?
Turns out, a lot:
- Be the contrast at group meetups to boost your own appeal
- Practice romantic conversation with no pressure
- Model “average guy” fashion looks
- Just have someone to talk to, hang out, or vent with
In Shinohara’s words: “Being ugly is finally paying off.”
📈 Ugly, But Make It a Brand
Thanks to the buzz, Shinohara left his comedy group behind and is now working full-time as Japan’s premier Rent-a-Ugly-Guy. He’s even got a new dream: to open a udon shop in the Netherlands.
Talk about unexpected glow-ups.
🧠 The Bigger Picture: Japan’s Rent-A-Person Boom
Japan has a growing list of “rental people,” including:
- Rent-a-boyfriend
- Rent-a-grandma
- Rent-a-friend
Now, “Rent-a-Ugly-Guy” joins the mix—proving that people crave companionship, not perfection.
🎁 No Rental Needed – Just Recharge at KXZ Store
You don’t need to rent an awkward buddy to make life interesting—sometimes all you need is a good game, a top-up, and a smooth app experience.
Head to KXZ Store for fast, secure top-ups, game credits, and digital gift cards. Stay connected, gift your friends, or treat yourself—because ugly or not, everyone deserves a little digital love.