Rie Kitahara debuted in the music industry by passing the audition for AKB48 in June 2008 and later appeared in AKB's next single, Oogoe Diamond. Since then, she has been an active member, appearing in each music video, interviews, variety shows, and performances. When Rie graduates from AKB, she said that she wants to become a famous actress, but has already started doing so by starring in the comedy movie, Graffreeter Toki and making her voice acting debut in the anime series Gakko; no Kowai Uwasa: Shin Hanako-san ga Kita!! and of course, appearing in the AKB48 TV series, Majisuka Gakuen. Apart from AKB48 and acting, she appears in the AKB48 sub-unit called Not Yet with fellow AKB members Yuko Oshima, Rino Sashihara, and Yui Yokoyama.