Pathetic Facts

Japanese movie stars born in 1981

Here are 21 famous actors from Japan were born in 1981:

Shugo Oshinari

Shugo Oshinari (March 5, 1981 Chiba-) also known as Oshinari Shūgo is a Japanese actor.

Shugo Oshinari started his acting career in 1999, debuting in the TV drama "Yomigaeru Kinro." He gained popularity in the early 2000s and has since appeared in numerous TV dramas, movies, and stage plays. Some of his notable works include the TV series "Gokusen 2" and "Jigoku Shoujo," and the movies "Battle Royale II: Requiem" and "Shaolin Girl." In addition to his acting career, Oshinari has also pursued a career in music, releasing his first solo album "Flat" in 2008. He is also known for his philanthropic activities, supporting various causes such as animal welfare and environmental conservation.

Read more about Shugo Oshinari on Wikipedia »

Kentaro Sato

Kentaro Sato (May 12, 1981 Hamamatsu-) also known as Ken-P is a Japanese composer, conductor, actor and orchestrator.

He is best known for composing the music for the anime series "Gunslinger Stratos" and "Magia Record: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Side Story". Sato began his music career at the age of 15 and studied music composition and conducting at the Tokyo College of Music. He has worked on a variety of projects in the entertainment industry, including video games and films. In addition to his work as a composer, Sato has also acted in a number of stage productions and TV dramas. He is known for his energetic and eclectic style of music, which blends elements of classical, rock, and electronic music.

Read more about Kentaro Sato on Wikipedia »

Akifumi Miura

Akifumi Miura (November 16, 1981-) is a Japanese actor.

He began his acting career in the early 2000s and quickly rose to fame through several successful TV dramas and movies. Miura's breakthrough came in 2010, when he played the lead role in the Japanese drama "The Unforgiven". He has since appeared in a number of critically acclaimed films and TV shows in his native country. Miura's acting style is known for being understated and subtle, and he is often praised for his ability to convey complex emotions through his performances. In addition to acting, Miura is also a trained martial artist and has performed many of his own stunts in several of his films. Miura is widely regarded as one of Japan's most talented young actors.

Read more about Akifumi Miura on Wikipedia »

Ryuji Sainei

Ryuji Sainei (October 8, 1981 Hiroshima Prefecture-) also known as 載寧龍二, さいねいりゅうじ or Sainei Ryuji is a Japanese actor.

He is best known for his role in the popular Japanese tokusatsu series "Tokusou Sentai Dekaranger" as Banban Akaza/ DekaRed, which he portrayed in 2004. He reprised his role in 2017 for the series' 10th anniversary. Other notable roles include Kamen Rider G in "Kamen Rider G" and Kamen Rider Odin in "Kamen Rider Ryuki." Sainei has also appeared in various Japanese dramas and films, such as "Last Dinner" and "Ultraman Saga." In addition to his acting career, Sainei is also a skilled martial artist and has been practicing karate since the age of three.

Read more about Ryuji Sainei on Wikipedia »

Takumi Saito

Takumi Saito (August 22, 1981 Tokyo-) a.k.a. Saitō Takumi or Takumi Saitoh is a Japanese actor, singer and model.

Takumi Saito started his career as a model for the fashion brand Men's Egg in 2002. He then entered the entertainment industry as an actor, making his debut in the TV drama "Water Boys 2" (2004). He became popular as an actor for his roles in various TV dramas such as "Buzzer Beat" (2009), "Ohitorisama" (2009), and "Ando Lloyd - A.I. Knows Love?" (2013).

Aside from acting, Takumi Saito is also a talented singer. He released his debut single "Itsuka Hanareru Hi ga Kite mo" in 2009, and has since released several singles and albums. In 2017, he formed a band called 10-Feet, and they released their first album "Life is Sweet" in the same year.

Takumi Saito is also known for his philanthropy work, particularly for his contribution to the Nepali earthquake relief. He visited Nepal as part of his charity work and also released a song to raise funds for the affected areas. He has also participated in charity events for children with disabilities and for underprivileged families.

In addition to his acting, singing and philanthropy work, Takumi Saito is also a fashion icon. He has collaborated with various fashion brands, and has even designed his own fashion line. His style is highly regarded by his fans and has been featured in many fashion magazines.

Read more about Takumi Saito on Wikipedia »

Katsuya Kobayashi

Katsuya Kobayashi (December 10, 1981 Shimonoseki-) a.k.a. Kobayashi Katsuya is a Japanese actor.

He made his acting debut in 2003 with the drama series "Stand Up!!", which also starred Kazunari Ninomiya of the boy band Arashi. Kobayashi has since appeared in a variety of TV dramas, movies, and stage productions. He is best known for his roles in the dramas "Kamen Rider Kabuto" (2006) and "Jigoku Sensei Nube" (2014), as well as in the movie "Neko Samurai" (2014). Kobayashi is also a trained dancer and has performed in several musicals, including "The Boy From Oz" (2013) and "West Side Story" (2016).

Read more about Katsuya Kobayashi on Wikipedia »

You Yokoyama

You Yokoyama (May 9, 1981 Osaka Prefecture-) also known as Kimitaka Yokoyama, Yu Yokoyama, Yuu Yokoyama, Yû Yokoyama, Yokoyama, Yuu, Yokoyama You, Yokoyama Yû or Yokoyama Kimitaka is a Japanese model, actor, singer, lyricist and radio personality.

He is best known as a member of the popular J-pop group Kanjani Eight, which he joined in 2004. Prior to joining Kanjani Eight, Yokoyama was a backup dancer for other J-pop groups, including SMAP and V6. In addition to his music career, Yokoyama has also acted in numerous television dramas and movies, including the popular drama "Believe in Love" and the film "Grasshopper". As a radio personality, he hosts his own show called "Never Stop Yokoyama Yu Together". In 2020, he released his solo album "Itteki no Eikyō" which received critical acclaim. He is known for his energetic and humorous personality on and off stage.

Read more about You Yokoyama on Wikipedia »

Eiki Kitamura

Eiki Kitamura (February 3, 1981 Kumamoto Prefecture-) is a Japanese actor.

Kitamura debuted as an actor in the 2004 TV drama "Honto ni Atta Kowai Hanashi". He gained recognition for his role in the 2005 drama "Division 1 Houkago" which led to other lead roles in dramas such as "Kuroi Taiyou" and "Dear Students". In 2008, he earned critical acclaim for his performance in the movie "Tokyo Sonata" which won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. In addition to his acting career, Kitamura has also performed in stage plays and musicals. He is known for his versatile acting skills and his ability to play diverse roles.

Read more about Eiki Kitamura on Wikipedia »

Kengo Ohkuchi

Kengo Ohkuchi (November 9, 1981 Kagoshima Prefecture-) is a Japanese actor.

He is best known for his roles in popular Japanese dramas such as "The Queen's Classroom" and "Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu". Ohkuchi began his acting career in 2005 and has since appeared in numerous TV dramas, films, and stage productions. In addition to acting, he is also a skilled musician and has released several singles and albums. Ohkuchi is known for his versatile acting skills and his ability to portray a wide range of characters, from serious and dramatic to humorous and lighthearted. He is currently represented by the talent agency Horipro.

Read more about Kengo Ohkuchi on Wikipedia »

Jun Kaname

Jun Kaname (February 21, 1981 Mino, Kagawa-) also known as Kaname Jun is a Japanese actor and tarento.

He made his acting debut in 2003 in the TV drama "Stand Up!!" and has since appeared in numerous TV dramas, films, and stage productions. Kaname is known for his versatile acting skills, having portrayed a wide range of characters from charming Prince Charming types to more complex anti-heroes.

In addition to his acting career, Kaname is also a popular tarento, or personality, appearing on various talk shows, variety shows, and commercials. He is known for his quick wit, humor, and affable personality, which have made him a favorite among audiences of all ages.

Kaname is also a prolific voice actor, having lent his voice to numerous anime series, films, and video games. He is known for his distinctive, deep voice and has played a wide range of characters from villains to heroes.

Despite his busy schedule, Kaname is actively involved in various charity projects and is known for his philanthropic efforts. He is also an avid sports enthusiast, particularly in basketball and golf.

Read more about Jun Kaname on Wikipedia »

Mitsuyoshi Shinoda

Mitsuyoshi Shinoda (October 1, 1981 Kanagawa Prefecture-) is a Japanese actor.

He made his debut in 2006 with the TV drama "Kamen Rider Kabuto" where he played the role of Tsurugi Kamishiro. Since then, he has appeared in numerous TV dramas, movies, and stage productions. Some of his notable works include "ROOKIES", "Change", "Sennyuu Keiji Idol Deka Dance", and "BORDER". He also received critical acclaim for his performance in the movie "It's Only Talk" where he played a leading role. He is known for his versatile acting skills and his ability to portray complex characters with ease. Aside from his acting career, Mitsuyoshi Shinoda is also a skilled musician and can play the guitar and drums.

Read more about Mitsuyoshi Shinoda on Wikipedia »

Miyavi

Miyavi (September 14, 1981 Konohana-ku, Osaka-) a.k.a. MYV, Takamasa Ishihara, Ishihara Takamasa, Miyabi, 雅, 382, DJ 382, MYV 382 TOKYO, 石原貴雅 Ishihara Takamasa, Miyavi or 雅-miyavi- is a Japanese musician, guitarist, record producer, actor, dancer, singer-songwriter, music arranger and film score composer. He has two children, Lovelie Miyavi Ishihara and Jewelie Aoi Ishihara.

Miyavi began his career in the music industry as a guitarist for the visual kei rock band Dué le Quartz in 1999. After the band disbanded in 2002, he pursued a successful solo career and became known for his unique style of playing the guitar, which includes finger-slapping and percussive techniques.

In addition to his music career, Miyavi has also acted in several films and television dramas, including the Hollywood film "Unbroken" directed by Angelina Jolie. He has also composed music for various films and television dramas in Japan.

Miyavi is known for his philanthropic work and has been appointed as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador to Japan to support refugees worldwide. He has also founded the charity organization "Project Unicef" to support children affected by war and poverty.

In 2018, Miyavi released his album "Samurai Sessions Vol. 3: Worlds Collide," which features collaborations with international artists such as R3hab, Seann Bowe, and Jonathan Davis of Korn. He continues to be an influential figure in the Japanese music industry and a global ambassador for Japanese culture.

Atsushi Abe

Atsushi Abe (March 25, 1981 Ashikaga-) also known as Abe Atsushi, Abeshi or Hidebu is a Japanese voice actor, singer and actor.

He entered the industry in 2004 and has since then voiced several popular characters in anime, including Toma Kamijo in "A Certain Magical Index", Moritaka Mashiro in "Bakuman", and Kōsei Arima in "Your Lie in April". In addition to his voice acting work, Abe has also made appearances in live-action television dramas and stage plays. He made his singing debut in 2012 with the single "Kimi no Uta". Abe is also known for his hobby of playing video games, and has even hosted his own live streams on YouTube showcasing his gaming skills.

Read more about Atsushi Abe on Wikipedia »

Yuki Matsuzaki

Yuki Matsuzaki (September 24, 1981 Miyazaki Prefecture-) also known as Matsuzaki Yuki is a Japanese actor.

He is best known for his roles in Hollywood films such as "The Last Samurai" and "Letters from Iwo Jima". In addition to acting, Matsuzaki is also a trained dancer and has performed in various stage productions in Japan. He began his acting career in 2003 with a minor role in the Japanese drama "Good Luck!!" and has since appeared in numerous films and television shows in both Japan and the United States. Matsuzaki is also fluent in English and has served as a translator for director Clint Eastwood during the filming of "Letters from Iwo Jima".

Read more about Yuki Matsuzaki on Wikipedia »

Tsubasa Imai

Tsubasa Imai (October 17, 1981 Fujisawa-) also known as Imai, Tsubasa or Imai Tsubasa is a Japanese singer and actor.

He is best known as a member of the Japanese boy band, Tackey & Tsubasa, alongside Hideaki Takizawa. The duo debuted in 2002 under Johnny & Associates, and have released numerous hit singles and albums.

Aside from his music career, Imai is also an accomplished actor. He has starred in various drama series, movies, and stage productions, earning critical acclaim for his roles in "Hana Kimi", "The Brave Yoshihiko", and "Kamen Rider".

Imai is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the field of disaster relief. He has been actively involved in various charity efforts, including helping victims of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami.

In his personal life, Imai is married to Japanese actress and model, Erika Toda. The couple tied the knot in 2018 after being in a relationship for several years.

Read more about Tsubasa Imai on Wikipedia »

Subaru Shibutani

Subaru Shibutani (September 22, 1981 Osaka Prefecture-) otherwise known as Shibutani, Subaru or Shibutani Subaru is a Japanese actor, singer and lyricist.

Shibutani began his entertainment career in 1999 as a member of the Japanese boy band Kanjani Eight. He has also acted in various television dramas, films and stage productions. Some of his most notable acting credits include the drama series "Stand Up!!" and "My Boss, My Hero", as well as the films "Arakawa Under the Bridge" and "Misono Universe". In addition to acting, Shibutani has pursued a successful solo music career, releasing several albums and singles. He is also known for his talents as a lyricist, having written songs for both himself and other popular J-Pop artists.

Read more about Subaru Shibutani on Wikipedia »

Taiyo Sugiura

Taiyo Sugiura (March 10, 1981 Tamano-) a.k.a. Sugiura Taiyo, Takayasu Sugiura, Sugiura Takayasu or Taiyô Sugiura is a Japanese actor. He has three children, Noa Sugiura, Seia Sugiura and Sora Sugiura.

Sugiura began his acting career in 2002 with the TV series "Water Boys." He has since appeared in numerous films, TV dramas, and stage productions, showcasing his versatility as an actor. One of his notable roles was in the 2007 film "The Sword of Alexander," which earned him a Best Supporting Actor nomination at the Japan Academy Prize. In addition to acting, Sugiura has also demonstrated his skills as a singer, releasing several singles and albums. He is known for his boyish looks and charming personality, which has earned him a devoted fan following in Japan and beyond. In his free time, Sugiura enjoys playing guitar and practicing yoga.

Read more about Taiyo Sugiura on Wikipedia »

Suguru Inoue

Suguru Inoue (December 4, 1981 Kanagawa Prefecture-) is a Japanese voice actor and actor.

He is affiliated with Aoni Production and has voiced several notable anime characters such as Kaito Momota in Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony, Juzo Sakakura in Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope's Peak High School and Akira Uchiyama in School-Live!. Inoue has also appeared in various Japanese TV dramas, films and stage productions. He is known for his deep voice and has won several awards for his voice acting skills. In addition to his acting career, Inoue is also a talented singer and has released several singles and albums.

Read more about Suguru Inoue on Wikipedia »

Kankuro Nakamura VI

Kankuro Nakamura VI (October 31, 1981 Tokyo-) also known as Nakamura Kankuro, Namino Masayuki, Nakamura Kankuro VI, Masayuki Namino, Nakamura Kankurō VI, Kantarô Nakamura or Kankurô Nakamura is a Japanese actor. He has two children, and .

Kankuro Nakamura VI comes from a family of Kabuki performers, including his father, Nakamura Kanzaburo XVIII, who was a renowned Kabuki actor. Kankuro has followed in his father's footsteps and is also a Kabuki actor, as well as a stage and film actor. He has appeared in various Kabuki productions and has won several awards for his performances, including the prestigious National Arts Festival's New Face Award in 2006. In addition to his acting career, he has also written screenplays and directed stage productions. Outside of entertainment, Kankuro is known for his philanthropy work, including supporting those affected by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Read more about Kankuro Nakamura VI on Wikipedia »

Akira

Akira (August 23, 1981 Yokohama-) also known as Kurosawa Ryōhei, 黒沢良平, Ryōhei Kurosawa or AKIRA is a Japanese dancer and actor.

Akira began his career as a back dancer for popular J-pop artists such as Ayumi Hamasaki and Namie Amuro. In 2007, he made his official debut as a solo artist with the single "My Way." Alongside his music career, Akira is also a successful actor, starring in various Japanese dramas and films such as "Kamen Rider Blade" and "Zenkai Girl." In addition, he is also a skilled martial artist and has competed in various tournaments. Outside of his work, Akira is known for his charitable efforts, particularly for helping those affected by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Gen Hoshino

Gen Hoshino (January 28, 1981 Saitama Prefecture-) a.k.a. Sakerock is a Japanese actor, songwriter, singer, lyricist and voice actor.

He debuted as a musician in 2000 and gained popularity with his hit song "Kudaranai no Naka ni" in 2003. In addition to his music career, Hoshino has also acted in numerous television dramas and films, including the popular television drama "Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu" (2016) and the film "Night is Short, Walk on Girl" (2017). He has also provided voice acting for several anime series, such as "Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood" (2009) and "One-Punch Man" (2015). In 2018, Hoshino released his sixth studio album "Pop Virus," which became a commercial success and won several awards. He is known for his upbeat and catchy pop songs, as well as his quirky and charming personality.

Read more about Gen Hoshino on Wikipedia »