After 15 years’ residency, Yuriko Kotani calls the United Kingdom home. The standup comedian has a thriving career, friends, hobbies and an affinity with British culture that has enabled her to become part of her London community. And perhaps what makes it even more surprising is that it’s a life built by seizing opportunities, rather than following a plan.
When asked why she left Japan, Kotani says she feels like she never did. It wasn’t a conscious decision, nor was staying in London for so long.
Kotani was in love when she left Tokyo, age 24, to accompany her then boyfriend on his return to Britain. She had a vague idea of meeting his family and friends before checking out the country, but she ended up staying, even after they broke up.