Japanese movie stars born in 1920
Here are 6 famous actresses from Japan were born in 1920:
Yoshiko Yamaguchi
Yoshiko Yamaguchi (February 12, 1920 Fushun-September 7, 2014 Tokyo) also known as Yoshiko Yomaguchi, Li Xianglan, Xianglan Li, Yoshiko Yamaguchi, Li Hsiang-lan, Ri Kôran, Li Xiang Lan, Hsiang-lan Li, Ōtaka Yoshiko, Shirley Yamaguchi, Ri Koran, The Judy Garland of Japan, 李香兰, Lǐ Xīanglán, Pan Shuhua, Li Hsiang Lan, 李香蘭, Ri Ko Ran, 山口淑子, Li Xiang-Ian, Li Xiang -Ian, Li, Xiang Lan, Yoshiko Otaka, Yoshiko ‘Shirley’ Yamaguchi or Rikoran was a Japanese politician, singer, actor and presenter.
Born in Manchuria to Chinese parents, Yamaguchi began her career in Shanghai as a singer and actress in the 1930s. She became hugely popular and was known for singing in both Mandarin and Japanese. In the 1940s, she was discovered by a Japanese film company and moved to Japan, where she became one of the most famous actresses of her time.
Despite her success in Japan, Yamaguchi faced controversy due to her nationality and was forced to retire briefly from the entertainment industry. However, she made a comeback and went on to serve as a member of parliament, becoming the first woman to be elected to Japan's upper house. She also worked to improve relations between Japan and China and was recognized for her humanitarian efforts.
Throughout her life, Yamaguchi remained a beloved figure in both China and Japan. She passed away in Tokyo in 2014 at the age of 94.
In addition to her successful career as an entertainer and politician, Yoshiko Yamaguchi was also a prolific writer, publishing several books including her autobiography "Li Hsiang-lan: A Portrait in Black and White" and "Blooms again in Hong Kong." She was also a talented linguist, fluent in Mandarin, Japanese, and English, which allowed her to communicate effectively with people from different cultures. As a politician, Yamaguchi was known for her progressive beliefs, advocating for women's rights, education, and peace between Japan and China. She was awarded numerous honors and awards throughout her lifetime, including the Order of the Rising Sun, the highest honor bestowed by the Japanese government. Yamaguchi's life story has inspired several films and documentaries, including the 1999 Chinese film "Li Hsiang-lan" and the 2007 Japanese film "I Want to Be a Shellfish." Overall, Yoshiko Yamaguchi was a trailblazer and cultural icon who left an indelible mark on the entertainment and political worlds of Japan and China.
Mitsuko Mori
Mitsuko Mori (May 9, 1920 Kyoto-November 10, 2012 Tokyo) otherwise known as Mitsu Murakami, Mori Mitsuko, Murakami Mitsu, 村上美津 or 森 光子 was a Japanese actor.
She became famous during the post-war period of Japan's film industry, particularly after her performance in the 1951 film adaptation of "The Life of Oharu" (Oharu no Kogai), directed by Kenji Mizoguchi. Her work in this film earned her critical acclaim, leading to more roles in other important Japanese films of the time. In addition to her work in films, Mori was also a prominent stage actress, appearing in numerous productions throughout her career. Her contributions to Japanese theater earned her the prestigious Best Actress award at the Mainichi Art Awards in 1950. Outside of her performing career, Mori was also known to be a fierce advocate for women's rights, often using her platform to speak out against gender inequality in Japan.
Later on in her career, Mitsuko Mori became a prolific television actress, appearing in many popular dramas and variety shows. She starred in the popular historical drama series "Hana no Shogai" in which she played the role of Matsudaira Tama, a real-life figure who was known for her beauty and intelligence. Mori's portrayal of Matsudaira Tama was highly praised, and the drama series had high ratings throughout its run. Mori's talent and dedication to her craft was recognized in 1985 when she was awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, one of Japan's highest honors. Mori continued to act well into her 80s, and her career spanned over 60 years. She passed away at the age of 92 in Tokyo.
Yoshiko Nakamura
Yoshiko Nakamura (October 30, 1920-December 3, 1987) also known as わたなべ よしこ, Watanabe Yoshiko, 中村 芳子, なかむら よしこ, Yoshiko Watanabe, 渡辺 芳子, Nakamura Yoshiko or 夕霧太夫 was a Japanese actor. She had one child, Nakamura Kikaku.
Yoshiko Nakamura was born in Tokyo, Japan to a family of kabuki actors. She made her acting debut at the age of four, and by the time she was in her 20s she was already a popular actress in both film and theater. Nakamura was known for her beauty and her powerful performances, which often featured her singing and dancing.
During World War II, Nakamura continued to perform and became a popular entertainer for Japanese soldiers. She starred in several propaganda films and toured military bases in Japan and overseas. After the war, Nakamura's career continued to flourish and she became a beloved actress in Japan. She also appeared in a number of international films, including the Hollywood production "Teahouse of the August Moon" (1956).
In addition to her acting career, Nakamura was also known for her philanthropy. She was a supporter of the Red Cross and other charitable organizations, and often used her celebrity status to raise awareness and funds for those in need.
Nakamura passed away in 1987 at the age of 67. She is remembered as one of the greatest actresses of her time and a symbol of Japan's golden age of cinema. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors and entertainers.
Nakamura was also a master of the traditional Japanese dance, having trained in the art since childhood. She incorporated her dance skills into many of her performances, creating a unique style that was both elegant and powerful. In addition to her on-stage work, Nakamura was also a successful radio and television personality, hosting her own programs and appearing as a guest on talk shows.
Despite her success, Nakamura faced personal struggles throughout her life. She was married and divorced three times, and she battled depression and alcoholism. However, she never let her personal issues interfere with her career, and she remained committed to entertaining her audiences and supporting those in need until her death.
Nakamura's contributions to Japanese cinema and culture have been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Order of the Sacred Treasure from the Japanese government. She is also commemorated with a statue in her honor at Hibiya Park in Tokyo.
Haruko Togo
Haruko Togo (March 15, 1920 Tokyo-March 3, 2011) a.k.a. Haruko Mori or Haruko Tôgô was a Japanese actor.
She began her career in the entertainment industry at a young age, acting in theater productions before transitioning to film in the 1940s. Togo quickly became a prominent actress, known for her versatile performances and natural charisma. Throughout her career, she appeared in over 200 films, showcasing her abilities in a range of roles, from heartwarming dramas to comedic romps.
In addition to her film work, Togo also acted on television and in stage plays. She won numerous awards for her performances, including the prestigious Blue Ribbon Award for Best Actress, and remained a beloved figure in Japanese entertainment until her passing in 2011. Togo's legacy as one of the most talented and accomplished actors in Japanese cinema continues to be celebrated and honored to this day.
Togo was born as Haruko Mori in Tokyo, Japan, in 1920. Her father was an actor, and Togo grew up fascinated by the world of entertainment. She made her stage debut at the age of six, and quickly gained recognition for her natural talent and stage presence. In 1940, she made her film debut in the movie "Wedding Ring".
Togo's performances in films such as "Tokyo Twilight" (1957) and "An Actress" (1956) earned her widespread acclaim and recognition. She was particularly admired for her ability to portray complex emotions and characters with subtlety and nuance. Her talent as an actress allowed her to work with some of the most respected directors in Japanese cinema, including Yasujiro Ozu and Mikio Naruse.
In addition to her work in film, Togo was also a respected stage actor, and appeared in many productions throughout her career. She also worked on several television dramas, and was a regular on the NHK series "Wakamono no Subete" (All About the Young Generation").
Togo continued to act well into her later years, and remained a beloved figure in Japanese entertainment until her passing in 2011 at the age of 90. She was honored with a special award at the Japan Academy Prize ceremony in recognition of her lifetime achievements in film. Togo's contributions to Japanese cinema are still celebrated today, and she is regarded as one of Japan's greatest actors.
Fumie Kitahara
Fumie Kitahara (May 28, 1920 Tokyo-October 6, 1980 Surugadai) a.k.a. Fumi'e Kitahara was a Japanese actor and voice actor.
She began her acting career in the 1940s and became known for her roles in popular films such as "A Tale of Genji" (1951) and "Gate of Hell" (1953). She also starred in numerous television dramas and was a prolific voice actor, lending her voice to many anime characters such as Lady Oyuu in "Shonen Sarutobi Sasuke" and Hanae in "My Neighbor Totoro." Kitahara was known for her nuanced performances and her ability to convey emotion through her voice. She was a popular figure in the Japanese entertainment industry and was recognized for her contributions to the arts with numerous awards including the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette in 1980. Kitahara passed away in 1980 at the age of 60.
In addition to her successful acting career, Fumie Kitahara was also an accomplished singer. She recorded several albums and performed live concerts throughout Japan. Outside of her artistic pursuits, Kitahara was also known for her humanitarian work. She was a dedicated philanthropist, and founded the Kitahara Fumie Oral Rehabilitation Center which provided dental care for those in need. Her generosity and kindness left a lasting impact on the people whose lives she touched. Today, Kitahara is remembered as a talented performer and a beloved figure in Japanese entertainment history. Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring actors and voice actors alike.
Kazuko Enami
Kazuko Enami (January 24, 1920 Kurume-November 5, 2014) was a Japanese actor. Her child is called Kyoko Enami.
Kazuko Enami started her acting career in 1944 at the Bungakuza theater company. She appeared in films, television dramas, and theater productions throughout her career, earning critical acclaim for her performances. Enami also taught acting at the Toho Gakuen School of Drama and Music. In 1994, she received the Medal with Purple Ribbon for her contributions to the arts in Japan. Despite retiring from acting in 2006, Enami continued to contribute to the industry as a voice actress for animated films and TV shows.
Some of Enami's notable film appearances include "The Ballad of Narayama" (1958), "The Life of Oharu" (1952), and "Twenty-Four Eyes" (1954). She also starred in various TV dramas such as "Ooka Echizen" and "Agatha Christie's Great Detectives Poirot and Marple."
Aside from acting, Enami was also known for her philanthropy work. She was a supporter of the Japan Cancer Society and volunteered for the Japanese Red Cross Society. Her dedication to helping those in need earned her the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays in 2008.
Enami passed away in 2014 at the age of 94 due to congestive heart failure. She is remembered as a talented actress who made significant contributions to Japanese entertainment and culture.