Japanese movie stars born in 1918
Here are 8 famous actors from Japan were born in 1918:
Yoshifumi Tajima
Yoshifumi Tajima (August 4, 1918 Kobe-September 10, 2009) a.k.a. Yoshibumi Tajima was a Japanese actor.
He began his acting career in 1941 and appeared in over 200 films during his lifetime. Tajima was known for his roles in jidaigeki, or historical drama films, and yakuza movies. Some of his notable appearances include "Sword for Hire" (1952), "The Human Condition" (1959-1961), and "Yojimbo" (1961). He also appeared in several American films such as "The Yakuza" (1974) and "Black Rain" (1989). Tajima was a recipient of the Order of the Rising Sun, 4th Class in 1998, for his contributions to Japanese cinema.
Tajima was born in Kobe, Japan in 1918. He completed his education at the Kobe City Commercial High School before pursuing his acting career. Tajima began his acting career with the Kyoto-based studio Daiei Film in 1941. In the early years of his career, he mostly appeared in supporting roles in war films and comedies. However, it was his skill in historical dramas, or jidaigeki, that cemented Tajima's place in Japanese cinema.
Tajima's breakthrough came in the 1952 film "Sword for Hire," in which he played a samurai character named Yorozuya Kumoji. He became a regular fixture in films by acclaimed director Masaki Kobayashi, with whom he collaborated on nine films including the epic "The Human Condition" trilogy. He also appeared in Akira Kurosawa's "Yojimbo" as a member of the opposing gang.
Tajima was also featured in American films such as Sydney Pollack's "The Yakuza," where he played a yakuza boss and Michael Douglas' counterpart. He also played a minor role as a sushi chef in "Black Rain" directed by Ridley Scott.
After retiring from acting in 1987, Tajima spent time furthering his career as a calligrapher and painter. In 1998, he was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Fourth Class for his contribution to the development of the entertainment industry. Tajima passed away at the age of 91 on September 10, 2009, in Tokyo.
Tajima was not only an actor but also a voice actor, providing voiceover work for animated films such as Isao Takahata's "Gauche the Cellist." He was also a mentor and teacher to young actors, serving as a professor at the Faculty of Arts at Toyo University. Tajima was a deeply respected figure in Japanese cinema, known for his professionalism, dedication, and discipline. His contributions to the industry helped shape and define the jidaigeki and yakuza genres, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and actors.
Ryō Ikebe
Ryō Ikebe (February 11, 1918 Ōta, Tokyo-October 8, 2010 Tokyo) also known as Ikebe Ryō, いけべ りょう or 池部 良 was a Japanese actor.
He began his acting career in the late 1930s and appeared in over 160 films throughout his career. Ikebe's most notable films include "The Rickshaw Man" (1958), "The Human Condition" (1959-1961), and "Red Beard" (1965). He also appeared in numerous television dramas and was a popular figure in Japanese entertainment throughout the 1950s and 1960s. In addition to his acting career, Ikebe was also a prolific author, writing over 100 books on various topics, including film and music. He was a recipient of the Order of the Rising Sun, 4th Class, in recognition of his contributions to the arts.
Ikebe Ryō was born into a family of intellectuals, and his father was a well-known philosopher. Ikebe pursued a degree in philosophy at the University of Tokyo but left early to pursue his acting career. He made his film debut in 1938 in the movie "Tsuchi" directed by Mikio Naruse. However, it wasn't until after World War II that he rose to prominence in Japanese cinema.
Throughout his career, Ikebe collaborated with some of Japan's greatest directors, including Akira Kurosawa and Masaki Kobayashi. He was particularly noted for his roles in Kobayashi's "The Human Condition" trilogy and Kurosawa's "Red Beard." Ikebe's performances in these films earned him critical acclaim both in Japan and internationally.
In addition to his film career, Ikebe was a prolific writer. He wrote numerous books on film and music, as well as on his experiences as an actor. He was also a talented musician, proficient in playing the guitar and composing music.
Ikebe retired from acting in the 1980s but continued to make occasional appearances on television. He remained active in the arts until his death in 2010 at the age of 92. Ikebe Ryō was widely regarded as one of Japan's finest actors and cultural figures of the 20th century.
Ikebe Ryō was also known for his work in promoting Japanese cinema internationally. He served as a member of the jury at the 1961 Cannes Film Festival and was also a member of the International Federation of Film Critics. In 1975, he was appointed as the president of the Japan Academy, which honors outstanding achievements in Japanese cinema. Ikebe was also a devoted philanthropist, working with various organizations to promote cultural exchange and education. He established scholarships for aspiring actors and filmmakers and was a vocal advocate for protecting Japan's cultural heritage. In recognition of his contributions to Japanese culture, Ikebe was awarded numerous honors, including the Purple Ribbon Medal and the Cultural Medal. Even after his death, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors and artists in Japan and beyond.
Hajime Izu
Hajime Izu (July 6, 1918 Japan-) is a Japanese actor.
Hajime Izu began his acting career at the age of 22 when he was recruited by the Shochiku film studio. He is best known for his roles in classic Japanese films such as "Sansho the Bailiff" and "The Ballad of Narayama." Izu's talent and consistency led him to act in more than 200 films throughout his career. He won several awards for his acting including the Best Supporting Actor award at the Blue Ribbon Awards in 1951 and the Best Actor award at the Mainichi Film Awards in 1957. In addition to his successful acting career, Izu also served as a mentor to several notable Japanese actors.
He was known for always staying true to his roles and being able to fully embody the characters he played. Izu was passionate about his craft and worked hard throughout his life to improve his acting abilities. In addition to his work in film, he also appeared in several stage productions throughout his career. Even after retiring from acting, he remained active in the entertainment industry, serving as an advisor and teacher to young actors. Izu's legacy continues to live on today, and he is remembered as one of Japan's most talented actors of all time.
In addition to his successful acting career, Izu was also a talented artist and calligrapher. He often incorporated his talents into his acting roles, bringing a unique perspective and depth to his characters. Izu also wrote several books about his experiences as an actor and his philosophies on life and art. One of his most well-known books, "The Actor's Way," is still highly regarded in the Japanese entertainment industry today.
Izu was also known for his philanthropic work, contributing to various charities and organizations throughout his life. He was a dedicated supporter of children's education and donated much of his time and money to schools and educational programs.
Despite his success, Izu remained humble and grounded, always acknowledging the hard work and dedication of those around him. He was highly respected among his peers and is remembered as not only a phenomenal actor but also as an inspiring human being.
Hideo Ko
Hideo Ko (October 9, 1918-May 4, 2009 Chiba) otherwise known as Hideo Yoshida or Hideo Kô was a Japanese actor.
He began his acting career in the 1940s and appeared in more than 170 films throughout his career. He was best known for his work in the "Yakuza" film genre, in which he often played the role of a gangster. Ko was also a prolific television actor, appearing in several popular Japanese dramas. In addition to his acting career, he was also a successful businessman, owning a popular restaurant in Ginza. Ko passed away in 2009 at the age of 90.
Ko was born in Tokyo and grew up in a family of performers. His parents were both Kabuki actors, and his older brother was a film director. Ko was initially interested in pursuing a career as a painter, but eventually followed in his family's footsteps and began acting. He made his film debut in 1942 in the movie "Fōkyū no Kishi" and quickly established himself as a popular actor.
Throughout his career, Ko worked with some of Japan's most acclaimed directors, including Akira Kurosawa, Kenji Mizoguchi, and Yasujirō Ozu. He appeared in several classic films, such as "Tokyo Twilight" and "Kwaidan", and won several awards for his acting.
Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Ko was also a dedicated businessman. In 1957, he opened a restaurant in the Ginza district of Tokyo called "Ginza Hideo", which became a popular spot for celebrities and politicians. In addition to his restaurant, he was also involved in the publishing industry and wrote several books.
Ko was married twice and had three children. He remained active in both acting and business until his death in 2009.
Ko's career spanned over six decades, with his final appearance in the movie "Suspect X" in 2008. He was known for his versatility as an actor, playing a wide range of roles in both film and television. Ko was also highly respected in the industry for his dedication and professionalism. He was a mentor to many young actors and was known for his willingness to share his knowledge and expertise. In recognition of his contributions to Japanese cinema, Ko was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Japan's highest award for cultural achievements, in 1993. His legacy continues to be celebrated by fans of Japanese cinema around the world.
Takashi Kanda
Takashi Kanda (April 14, 1918 Akasaka-July 13, 1986 Kyōto Station) was a Japanese actor.
Kanda started his acting career in the late 1930s and appeared in over 200 films throughout his career. He was known for his roles in samurai films and was part of the ensemble cast of the Seven Samurai (1954), widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. Kanda also appeared in Akira Kurosawa's Throne of Blood (1957) and Yojimbo (1961), both of which are considered classics of Japanese cinema. Besides his work in film, Kanda also appeared in television shows and stage productions. He received numerous awards for his work in film, including a Best Supporting Actor award from the Japan Academy Awards for his role in Kagemusha (1980).
In addition to his prolific acting career, Takashi Kanda was also known for his work as a director and writer. He directed four films throughout the 1960s and 1970s and wrote several screenplays. Kanda was an active member of the Japanese actors' union and worked to improve the rights and working conditions of actors in the industry. He was also involved in training young actors and mentored several up-and-coming performers. Kanda was widely respected for his dedication to his craft and his ability to bring depth and nuance to his roles. He passed away at the age of 68, leaving behind a legacy as one of Japan's greatest actors.
Despite his successful acting career, Takashi Kanda was known for being private about his personal life. He rarely gave interviews or spoke about his family, leading to many rumors and speculation about his personal life. However, it is known that Kanda was born in Tokyo and grew up in a prominent family. His father was a businessman and his mother was a geisha. Kanda had a younger brother who pursued a career in fashion design.
Kanda's work in the film industry had a profound impact on Japanese cinema and he is remembered as one of the greatest actors of his generation. His performances in films like Samurai I: Musashi Miyamoto (1954) and The Sword (1964) set a standard for the portrayal of samurai characters in Japanese cinema. Kanda's legacy lives on in the many films he worked on and the actors he mentored who went on to become stars in their own right.
In 1985, a year before his death, Kanda was honored with the Order of the Rising Sun, a prestigious award given by the Japanese government to individuals who have made significant contributions to culture, science, and public service. The award recognized Kanda's lifelong dedication to his craft and his efforts to improve working conditions for actors in the industry. Today, he is remembered as one of Japan's most talented and respected actors.
Gonjuro Kawarasaki
Gonjuro Kawarasaki (February 11, 1918 Nagoya-February 18, 1998) also known as 三代目 河原崎 権十郎, さんだいめ かわらさき ごんじゅうろう, かわらさき ごんじゅうろう, Kawarasaki Gonjuro, Gonjuro Kawarasaki(III), Gonjuro Kawarasaki III, 河原崎権十郎 (3代目), Nagatani Masakazu, Masakazu Nagatani, ながたに まさかず, 長谷 真佐一 or 渋谷の海老さま was a Japanese actor.
He was a kabuki actor and considered one of the leading performers of the 20th century. Kawarasaki was born into a family with a long history in the kabuki theater, with both his father and grandfather being actors. He made his debut at the age of four and went on to become a prominent actor both in Japan and internationally. Kawarasaki was known for his performances in traditional kabuki plays, as well as modern theater productions. He also appeared in several films, including The Sword, which won the Palme d'Or at the 1973 Cannes Film Festival. Kawarasaki was awarded numerous honors throughout his career, including Japan's highest cultural honor, the Order of Culture. He passed away in 1998 at the age of 80.
Throughout his life, Kawarasaki made significant contributions to the preservation and modernization of kabuki theater. He played a pivotal role in introducing kabuki to international audiences, with performances across the United States and Europe. In addition to his work on stage and in film, Kawarasaki also served as a mentor to younger actors and was heavily involved in training the next generation of kabuki performers. His legacy as an actor and cultural icon continues to be celebrated in Japan and around the world.
Kawarasaki Gonjuro was also known for his unique and versatile style of acting, which allowed him to seamlessly transition between different roles and characters. He was known for his ability to balance tradition with innovation, bringing new interpretations to classic kabuki plays while respecting the art form's centuries-old history. Kawarasaki was also a prolific writer and commentator on kabuki, publishing several books on the subject throughout his career. His contributions to kabuki theater were recognized with several awards, including the Order of the Sacred Treasure, one of Japan's highest honors. Even in his later years, Kawarasaki continued to perform and teach, serving as a bridge between the past and future of kabuki. Today, he is remembered as a legend of the theater and a cultural icon whose legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors and theater enthusiasts.
Junpei Natsuki
Junpei Natsuki (June 15, 1918 Fukuoka-February 21, 2010) was a Japanese actor.
He is known for his remarkable performances, which earned him several awards and nominations throughout his career in the film industry. Natsuki made his film debut in 1948 and appeared in over 150 films, including some major classics of Japanese cinema. He worked with some of the greatest directors of the country, such as Akira Kurosawa, Kenji Mizoguchi, and Yasujirō Ozu. He also appeared in several television dramas and stage plays. In addition to acting, Natsuki was also involved in screenwriting and directing. He received many awards for his outstanding contributions to the Japanese film industry, including the Medal of Honor with Purple Ribbon in 1984, the Order of the Rising Sun in 1992, and the Japan Academy Prize for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1995.
In his early career, Junpei Natsuki was a member of the Bungakuza theater company, where he honed his craft as a stage actor. He then transitioned to film, where he quickly made a name for himself as a versatile character actor. Despite being cast in a variety of roles, from samurai to gangsters, Natsuki was consistently praised for his ability to bring depth and nuance to every character he played.
Natsuki's most famous role was in Akira Kurosawa's "Seven Samurai" (1954), where he played the character Katsushiro. He went on to appear in several other Kurosawa films, including "Yojimbo" (1961) and "Sanjuro" (1962). In addition to his work with Kurosawa, Natsuki also collaborated with other major directors of the era such as Kenji Mizoguchi, Yasujirō Ozu, and Mikio Naruse.
Towards the end of his career, Natsuki slowed down his acting work, but stayed busy with his writing and directing. He also worked as a professor of film at Tokyo's Musashino Art University. He passed away in 2010 at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy as one of Japan's most talented and respected actors.
Outside of his career, Junpei Natsuki was a staunch advocate for preserving traditional Japanese culture, particularly in the realm of theater and art. He served as the chairman of the Japanese Society for Rights of Authors, Composers, and Publishers and was a honorary president of the Actors' Union of Japan. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Natsuki was awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun in 2002. He was also an avid collector of antique Japanese pottery and ceramics, and his collection was showcased in a special exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum in 2001.
Shunji Sayama
Shunji Sayama (September 13, 1918 Noboribetsu-January 30, 1984 Shōwa-ku, Nagoya) otherwise known as Sayama Shunji, Nakae Isamu or Isamu Nakae was a Japanese actor. His child is called Sayama Takeshi.
Sayama Shunji started his acting career in the 1940s but became a popular household name in the 1950s and 1960s, starring in numerous Japanese films and television dramas. Some of his most notable performances include his role as the lead character in the film "Ugetsu" (1953), which won the Silver Lion prize at the Venice Film Festival, and his portrayal of the antagonist in the film "Harakiri" (1962).
In addition to his thriving acting career, Sayama Shunji was also a talented writer and director. He wrote several plays and directed his own films, including "Kegawa no Marii" (1957) and "Miyamoto Musashi" (1954).
Sayama Shunji was married to fellow actress, Mieko Takamine, and had one son, Sayama Takeshi, who also followed in his parents' footsteps and became an actor. Sayama Shunji passed away in 1984 at the age of 65 from lung cancer.
Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Sayama Shunji was known for his private and reserved nature. He was known to keep to himself and rarely granted interviews to the press. Sayama Shunji's talent and dedication to his craft left a lasting impact on Japanese cinema and television. In recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor with Purple Ribbon by the Japanese government in 1984. Today, his legacy lives on through his iconic performances and the influence he had on future generations of actors and filmmakers.
Sayama Shunji was born in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan, in 1918. After graduating from high school, he moved to Tokyo to pursue his passion for acting. Sayama made his film debut in 1940, and his career continued to gain momentum throughout the war years, mainly playing supporting roles in films.
However, it wasn't until the early 1950s that Sayama received more significant roles and recognition for his acting abilities. He collaborated with renowned directors such as Kenji Mizoguchi and Masaki Kobayashi, contributing to some of the most celebrated Japanese films of all time.
In addition to his acting and directing work, Sayama Shunji was also an accomplished novelist and poet. He wrote several plays, novels, and essays throughout his career, showcasing his creative versatility.
Sayama's marriage to the actress Mieko Takamine was one of the most celebrated marriages in the entertainment industry in Japan at the time. Both actors were widely respected, and their pairing was seen as a match made in heaven. They often worked together on several projects, earning them the nickname of "Japan's dream couple."
Despite his successes, Sayama Shunji remained humble and committed to his craft. He was known for his boundless energy and dedication to his acting and writing work, which earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and fans.
Sayama Shunji's contributions to the arts and entertainment industry were invaluable, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers in Japan and beyond.