Ueto Aya (???) is a popular actress and singer in Japan. Her career began with her participation in a beauty pageant in 1997, where she received a special award. She soon got many deals to appear in TV commercials. In 1999 she formed a J-pop group, Z-1, with three other girls. They only released 5 singles before breaking up. In 2000, Aya began her acting career with a role in the J-drama "Namida o Fuite" (Dry Your Tears). She soon landed more roles in various J-dramas including in the long running school drama "Kinpachi-sensei", which greatly boosted her popularity. Her solo singing career began in 2002 with the debut single "Pureness". Aya also appeared on the big screen with the blockbuster hit movie Azumi. She also starred in its sequel, Azumi 2: Death or Love.