Japanese movie stars born in 1928
Here are 7 famous actresses from Japan were born in 1928:
Katsuko Wakasugi
Katsuko Wakasugi (March 23, 1928 Tokyo-) also known as Sumiko Wakasugi or Kazuko Wakasugi is a Japanese actor.
Wakasugi began her acting career in the 1950s and quickly became a household name in Japan. She appeared in over 130 films and TV dramas throughout her career. Some of her most renowned works include "The Ballad of Narayama" (1958), "The Altar of Lust" (1971) and "The Family Game" (1983). Wakasugi received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the Kinema Junpo Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in "The Human Condition" (1959). Off-screen, she was an advocate for animal rights and frequently spoke out against animal cruelty. She passed away on December 17, 1995, at the age of 67.
In addition to her successful acting career, Wakasugi was also a talented singer and released several albums throughout her life. She often performed her own songs in films and television dramas, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Wakasugi was also a popular radio personality, hosting her own show titled "Wakasugi Katsuko no Koneko no Kobanashi" which focused on animal welfare.
Outside of her artistic pursuits, Wakasugi was a devoted activist who championed various social causes. In addition to her work in animal rights, she was an advocate for women's rights and often spoke out against gender inequality in Japan. Wakasugi was also a vocal opponent of the death penalty and served as the chairperson of the Japan Committee Against the Death Penalty. Her commitment to social justice and compassion for all living beings continue to inspire many in Japan and beyond.
Wakasugi also had a successful career on stage, performing in both traditional Japanese theater and modern plays. She was particularly well-known for her roles in adaptations of the works of Kenji Miyazawa, a renowned Japanese author and poet. Wakasugi was a regular performer at the Haiyuza Theater Company, one of Japan's most respected theater companies, and she maintained a strong connection to the Japanese theater scene throughout her life.
In addition to her artistic and social justice pursuits, Wakasugi was also a loving mother and grandmother. She had two daughters and four grandchildren, and she was known for her devotion to her family. Her legacy lives on not only through her work on stage and screen, but also through her tireless advocacy for a more compassionate and just society.
Wakasugi was born in Tokyo in 1928 and grew up during a tumultuous time in Japanese history. Her father was a civil servant in the Japanese government, and her mother was a housewife. Despite facing numerous challenges due to her gender and background, Wakasugi pursued her passion for the arts and eventually found success as an actor and singer. Her talent and dedication to her craft earned her a reputation as one of Japan's most beloved performers, and her influence continues to be felt in the Japanese entertainment industry today. Wakasugi's commitment to social justice and animal welfare make her a role model for many in Japan and around the world, and her legacy serves as a reminder to always strive towards a more compassionate and just society.
Toshie Kusunoki
Toshie Kusunoki (January 11, 1928 Kanda, Tokyo-) also known as 楠山 敏江, 楠 トシエ, くすのき としえ, Toshie Kusuyama, ビンチャン, くすやま としえ, Kusuyama Toshie or Kusunoki Toshie is a Japanese voice actor and actor.
She has played various roles in both Japanese animated television series and films. Some of her notable voice-over roles include the character of Pinoko in the Japanese animated television series "Black Jack," the character of Kitarō in "GeGeGe no Kitarō," and the character of Hanawa in "Chibi Maruko-chan." Kusunoki has also done voice-over work in foreign films such as "Blow-Up" and "Casino." In addition to her voice-over work, Kusunoki has appeared in various Japanese television dramas and films. She has received numerous awards for her work including the Special Achievement Award at the 2015 Seiyu Awards.
Kusunoki began her career in entertainment in the early 1950s as a stage actress. She later transitioned to voice acting, making her debut in the Japanese dubbed version of the Walt Disney animated film "Sleeping Beauty" in 1959. Throughout her career, she has voiced many characters in various animated series and films, including the character of Fujiko Mine in "Lupin III."
Aside from acting, Kusunoki is a skilled calligrapher, having received a certification in kanji calligraphy. She has also written several books on the subject and has held exhibitions of her calligraphy work.
Kusunoki has been married twice, first to actor Yoshibumi Tajima and then to fellow voice actor and actor Tamio Ōki. She has a daughter from her first marriage who is also a voice actor.
Kusunoki Toshie is highly regarded for her versatility and the breadth of her acting. She is known for her ability to play characters of any age or gender, making her a highly sought after voice actor in Japan. Kusunoki has also been recognized for her contribution to anime, receiving the Tokyo Anime Award for Best Voice Actor in 2011. Kusunoki was also honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2015 Japan Academy Awards.
Kusunoki has also worked as a narrator, providing voice-over for commercials and documentaries. She is recognized for her calming and authoritative voice which has made her a popular choice for narration.
Aside from her work in entertainment, Kusunoki is an avid traveler, having visited over 80 countries. She has documented her travels in a book titled "Toshie's Journey," which was released in 2018. Kusunoki is also a supporter of the arts, serving as a board member of the Japan Actors' Association and the Japanese Society for Rights of Authors, Composers, and Publishers.
Kusunoki continues to work in the entertainment industry, with her most recent work being in the 2019 anime series "Namu Amida Butsu! Rendai Utena" where she voiced the character of Nyoirin Kannon.
Kusunoki Toshie is highly respected in the voice acting industry in Japan, having worked for over six decades. Her distinct and versatile voice has made her a prominent figure in the field, and she is considered a pioneer in the anime industry. Kusunoki has been recognized for her contributions with several awards, including the Special Achievement Award at the 2015 Seiyu Awards and the 2015 Japan Academy Awards Lifetime Achievement Award.
Throughout her career, Kusunoki has not only excelled in voice acting but has also performed in various live-action roles, including stage plays, television dramas, and films. She is highly regarded for her ability to play characters of different ages and genders with utmost ease. Kusunoki has also shared her knowledge and passion for kanji calligraphy with the world through her books and exhibitions.
In her personal life, Kusunoki has been happily married twice and has a daughter who is also a voice actor. She is an avid traveler who has explored over 80 countries and has documented her adventures in a book titled "Toshie's Journey." Kusunoki is also an advocate for the arts and is a member of various associations that support authors, composers and performers. Despite her advanced age, Kusunoki continues to work and recently lent her voice to the character of Nyoirin Kannon in the 2019 anime series "Namu Amida Butsu! Rendai Utena."
Kazuko Yamamoto
Kazuko Yamamoto (January 28, 1928 Fushun-) also known as 山本 和子, Yamamoto Kazuko or やまもと かずこ is a Japanese actor. She has two children, Tomoko Mariya and Asako Yashiro.
Yamamoto began her career in the entertainment industry in the 1950s and quickly gained popularity for her roles in films and television shows. She often portrayed strong, independent women and became a symbol of the changing roles of women in Japanese society. In addition to her acting career, Yamamoto was also a talented singer and recorded several popular songs. She retired from acting in 1996, but remains a beloved figure in Japanese entertainment and continues to be celebrated for her contributions to the industry. Outside of her work in entertainment, Yamamoto is also known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of education and environmental conservation. She has received numerous awards and honors for her work, including the Medal of Honor with Purple Ribbon from the Japanese government.
In her early career, Yamamoto studied acting under the guidance of famed Japanese actress and director, Kinuyo Tanaka. She made her debut in 1950 in the film "The Munekata Sisters" directed by Yasujirō Ozu. Her breakthrough role came in 1952 in the film "A Dangerous Hero" directed by Kajirō Yamamoto. Yamamoto went on to appear in numerous films and television dramas throughout the following decades, including "Tokyo Twilight" directed by Yasujirō Ozu, "The Human Condition" directed by Masaki Kobayashi, and "Abarenbo Shogun" a popular television series.
Throughout her career, Yamamoto received critical acclaim for her performances and was nominated for several awards, including the Japanese Academy Award for Best Actress. She won the award in 1984 for her role in the film "Haru no Hatou" directed by Katsumi Nishikawa.
Yamamoto is known for her advocacy for the environment and education. In 1994, she established the Yamamoto Kazuko Scholarship Foundation for students pursuing degrees in environmental studies. The foundation has since awarded over 100 scholarships. Additionally, Yamamoto has been involved in numerous environmental organizations and campaigns, including the Clean Japan Campaign and Japan Wildlife Conservation Society.
Yamamoto's legacy continues to have an impact on Japanese society and entertainment industry. In 2000, a museum dedicated to her life and career was opened in her hometown of Fushun, China. She also serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and actresses, particularly those who seek to portray strong female characters.
In addition to her accomplishments in the entertainment industry and philanthropic work, Kazuko Yamamoto was also a pioneer for women's rights in Japan. She was known for speaking out against gender discrimination and advocating for equal opportunities for women in the workplace. This activism was reflected in her choice of roles, as she often portrayed women who challenged traditional gender roles and societal expectations. Yamamoto's impact on Japanese culture and society was recognized in 2010 when she was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, one of Japan's highest honors. Today, she is remembered as an iconic figure in Japanese entertainment and a trailblazer for women's rights.
Despite her popularity as an actress, Yamamoto was dedicated to her family and often prioritized their needs above her career. She took a break from acting in the 1960s to care for her children and later returned to the industry in the 1970s. Yamamoto's daughter, Tomoko Mariya, also became a successful singer and actress, following in her mother's footsteps. Yamamoto was supportive of her daughter's career and the two even appeared together on television shows and in commercials.
Yamamoto was also known for her work promoting the arts in Japan. She was a board member of the Tokyo National Museum and was involved in the establishment of the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. In 1996, she was appointed as an Honorary Citizen of Tokyo for her contributions to the city's cultural and artistic development.
Yamamoto's dedication to environmental conservation led her to become involved with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). In 1990, she was appointed as a UNEP Goodwill Ambassador, a role she held until 2008. As part of her work with UNEP, Yamamoto traveled to countries around the world to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable development.
Even in her nineties, Yamamoto continued to be active and involved in philanthropic work. In 2019, she donated her personal archive, which includes photographs, scripts, and other memorabilia from her career, to the National Film Archive of Japan. Yamamoto's donation will contribute to the preservation and celebration of Japanese film history for generations to come.
Sumie Sasaki
Sumie Sasaki (June 22, 1928 Tokyo-) also known as Sasaki Sumie, ささき すみえ or 佐々木 すみ江 is a Japanese actor and voice actor.
She began her career in the entertainment industry in the 1950s and quickly rose to prominence due to her impressive acting skills. Throughout her career, she has appeared in numerous films, television dramas, and stage productions, earning critical acclaim for her performances.
Sasaki is also a prolific voice actor, lending her voice to a wide range of animated characters in both television shows and films. Some of her most notable roles include Miyoko Hōjō in the popular anime series "Chibi Maruko-chan" and Granny Chiyo in the hit film "Naruto Shippuden: The Movie."
In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, Sasaki is also a widely respected acting coach and has trained numerous young actors and actresses throughout her career. She continues to inspire and mentor aspiring performers to this day.
Sasaki Sumie was born in Tokyo, Japan, on June 22, 1928. She attended Tamagawa University in Tokyo, where she studied theater arts. Sasaki began her acting career in the 1950s, working with prominent theater companies such as Phoenix and Haiyuza. In 1963, she made her film debut in the movie "Rusty Knife," directed by Toshio Masuda.
Throughout her career, Sasaki has received numerous accolades and awards for her acting work. In 2008, she was awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon by the Japanese government for her contributions to the arts.
Aside from her successful acting career, Sasaki Sumie has also been actively involved in charitable causes. She is a member of the Japan Committee for UNICEF and has served as a goodwill ambassador for the organization, helping to raise awareness and funds for children in need.
Sasaki Sumie is widely regarded as one of Japan's most respected actors, with her performances known for their depth, nuance, and emotional range. Today, she is still active in the industry and continues to be an inspiration to young actors and actresses in Japan and around the world.
Sasaki Sumie's acting skills are not only recognized in Japan but also internationally. In 1984, she won the Best Actress award at the Moscow International Film Festival for her role in the film "The Family Game." She also received critical acclaim for her performance in the 1989 film "Black Rain," which was directed by Ridley Scott and starred Michael Douglas and Andy Garcia.
In addition to her work in theater, film, and voice acting, Sasaki Sumie has also appeared on television, both as an actress and a regular guest on variety shows. She has also lent her voice to radio dramas and commercials.
Sasaki Sumie has been married twice, first to actor Takashi Shimura and then to actor and director Jun Hamamura. She has one daughter from her first marriage and one son from her second marriage.
As a respected veteran in the entertainment industry, Sasaki Sumie continues to inspire younger generations of actors and actresses in Japan to pursue their passion for the craft. Her legacy as an actor, coach, and humanitarian has made her an icon in Japanese entertainment and a beloved figure to her fans around the world.
Sasaki Sumie's contributions to the entertainment industry in Japan have been recognized and honored by numerous organizations. In addition to her government awards, she has also received accolades from the Japanese Academy Awards, the Mainichi Film Awards, and the Kinema Junpo Awards. Her dedication to the craft of acting and her mentorship of younger performers have also earned her the respect and admiration of her peers in the industry.
Despite her success, Sasaki Sumie is known for her humble and down-to-earth demeanor, and she remains dedicated to improving her craft through continued learning and training. She is also known for her commitment to social causes, advocating for the rights of women and children and raising awareness of issues such as poverty and domestic violence.
Throughout her long and illustrious career, Sasaki Sumie has remained a committed and passionate performer, beloved by audiences both in Japan and around the world. Her enduring legacy as an actor, coach, and humanitarian makes her a true icon of Japanese entertainment.
Yoko Tani
Yoko Tani (August 2, 1928 Paris-April 19, 1999 Paris) also known as Yoko, Itani Yōko or Yoko Itani was a Japanese actor and entertainer.
She was known for her work in both French and British productions, making appearances in over 30 films throughout her career. Tani began her career as a cabaret dancer in Paris before transitioning to acting in the 1950s. She gained international recognition with her role in the 1956 film "Yangtse Incident: The Story of H.M.S. Amethyst." Tani was fluent in multiple languages and often served as a cultural liaison between French and Japanese communities. She was also an accomplished stage performer, appearing in productions of the Royal Shakespeare Company and the West End. Tani continued to work in film and television into the 1990s, and was awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure by the Japanese government in 1985 for her contributions to the arts.
Throughout her career, Yoko Tani worked with many notable directors, including Alfred Hitchcock, Jean-Luc Godard, and Ken Russell. She also appeared in several episodes of the popular British television show "The Avengers." In addition to her acting work, Tani was an accomplished musician, playing the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. She recorded several albums of Japanese music, including one with her husband, composer and pianist Robert Cornthwaite. Tani was married twice and had two children. Despite her success and fame, she remained a private person and rarely gave interviews or spoke about her personal life. Tani passed away in Paris at the age of 70.
Yoko Tani was born in Paris to Japanese parents who were visiting the city. She spent her early years in Shanghai, China, before returning to Paris to attend school. As a young adult, Tani worked as a model and dancer, performing in nightclubs in Paris and throughout Europe. During this time, she also pursued her interest in traditional Japanese music and began playing the koto.
Tani's acting career began in French films in the early 1950s, and she quickly gained notice for her talent and beauty. In 1956, she starred in "Yangtse Incident: The Story of H.M.S. Amethyst," a British film that was a critical and commercial success. This role brought her to the attention of international audiences and opened doors for her in Hollywood and elsewhere.
Despite facing racism and discrimination in her career, Tani continued to work and achieve success, breaking down barriers for Asian actors in the entertainment industry. She also used her position to raise awareness of Japanese culture and promote understanding between different communities.
Tani's legacy as an actor, musician, and cultural ambassador continues to inspire and influence audiences around the world.
In addition to her work in film and television, Yoko Tani was also active in the fashion industry. She modeled for many prominent fashion designers, including Coco Chanel and Christian Dior. Tani also appeared on the covers of several fashion magazines and was often admired for her elegant and sophisticated style. Her interest in fashion extended beyond modeling, as she would design her own clothes and accessories.
In the 1960s, Tani took a break from her acting career to focus on her family and music. She toured Europe and Japan with her husband, performing traditional Japanese music and incorporating modern elements into their compositions. Tani also wrote her own music and collaborated with other musicians throughout her career.
Despite facing sexism and racism in the entertainment industry, Yoko Tani never wavered in her commitment to her craft and to promoting cultural understanding. Her legacy as a talented and multifaceted artist continues to be celebrated today.
Toki Shiozawa
Toki Shiozawa (April 1, 1928 Ushigome, Tokyo-May 17, 2007 Meguro) also known as Toyoji Shiozawa was a Japanese actor.
Toki Shiozawa started his acting career in 1948 with the film "Totsugu hi made" (Until the Next Day). He appeared in over 200 films and television dramas throughout his career. He was known for his roles in the films "The Human Condition" (1959-1961), "Three Outlaw Samurai" (1964), and "The Yakuza" (1974). Apart from his work in films, he also worked as a voice actor, dubbing foreign language films and TV shows in Japan. Toki Shiozawa received many awards for his contributions to the Japanese film industry, including the Best Supporting Actor award at the 14th Blue Ribbon Awards in 1961 for his role in "The Human Condition". He passed away in 2007 at the age of 79.
In addition to his success as an actor, Toki Shiozawa was also involved in the creation of films as a producer. He founded his own production company, Shiotama Productions in 1973, and was involved in the production of several films including "Tokyo Elegy" (1981) and "Yaji and Kita: The Midnight Pilgrims" (2005). Shiozawa was also known for his dedication to the development of young talent in the industry, and was involved in the establishment of the Shochiku-Ofuna Film School in 1992, where he served as a lecturer. He was recognized for his contributions to the film industry with the Purple Ribbon Medal of Honor in 2003.
Toki Shiozawa's acting talent was not only limited to films and television dramas, he also made a name for himself on stage. He appeared in several stage productions throughout his career including "Fiddler on the Roof" and "Death of a Salesman". In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Shiozawa was also a social activist. He was a supporter of the anti-nuclear movement and raised awareness about the dangers of nuclear weapons. He was an active member of the Japan Peace Committee for many years and was involved in many protests against nuclear proliferation. Shiozawa was also a prolific writer and authored several books on acting and the film industry. His memoir, "Toki Shiozawa: An Actor's Life" was published posthumously in 2008.
Toki Shiozawa's contributions to the Japanese film and entertainment industry earned him many accolades, and he was a respected and beloved figure in the industry. In addition to his work as an actor and producer, he was also a champion of social issues and used his platform to raise awareness and effect change. Despite his passing in 2007, his legacy lives on through his extensive body of work and the impact he made on the industry and society as a whole.
Eiko Shinya
Eiko Shinya (June 9, 1928 Osaka-) is a Japanese actor.
Eiko Shinya began his acting career in the late 1940s, appearing in a number of stage productions and films in Japan. He gained international recognition for his portrayal of Father Francis in the award-winning film "Black Rain" (1989), directed by Shohei Imamura. Throughout his career, Shinya has worked with some of Japan's most esteemed filmmakers, including Yasujiro Ozu, Akira Kurosawa, and Masahiro Shinoda. In addition to acting, Shinya has also written and directed theater productions. He has won several awards for his contributions to Japanese cinema, including the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette.
In the 1960s, Eiko Shinya took a hiatus from acting to study in Paris, France, before returning to Japan to continue his career in the arts. With his extensive experience in theater and film, Shinya has also served as a mentor to younger actors and directors in Japan. He is known for his versatility as an actor, having tackled roles ranging from dramatic to comedic, and continues to act in films and television to this day. In his personal life, Shinya is an avid collector of antiques and has written books on the subject. He is also a keen gardener and has been known to incorporate his experiences in gardening into his acting work.
Shinya was born in Osaka in 1928, and he grew up in Japan during World War II. After Japan's surrender, he began his acting career and quickly established himself as a versatile performer. In addition to film and theater, he also appeared in television dramas and commercials. Some of his most notable roles include the doctor in the film "The Human Condition" (1959), and the businessman in "Late Autumn" (1960), directed by Yasujiro Ozu.
Despite his success in Japan, Shinya's international breakthrough came with "Black Rain," a film that delves into the aftermath of the Hiroshima bombing. The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and garnered critical acclaim worldwide. Shinya's performance as Father Francis, a Catholic priest who tries to help the victims of the bombing, is considered one of his best.
Throughout his career, Shinya has been active in promoting cultural exchange between Japan and other countries. In the 1990s, he founded the Japan-Korea Cultural Exchange Association and has since organized numerous events and programs to foster friendship and understanding between the two nations.
Shinya's contributions to Japanese cinema have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. In addition to the Order of the Rising Sun, he has received the Purple Ribbon Medal and the Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from the French government.
Shinya's passion for the arts has led him to explore other fields as well. He has designed sets for theater productions and has even dabbled in calligraphy, earning a professional certification in the art form. Shinya's commitment to his craft is evident in his dedication to mastering different skills and his willingness to take on new challenges. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Shinya was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Japan Academy Awards in 2014. Despite his age, Shinya continues to act, direct, and write, and his legacy as an actor and cultural ambassador for Japan will endure for generations to come.