‘Mortal Kombat’ Star Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa Dies at 75
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, renowned for his iconic roles in film and television, passed away at the age of 75. His death occurred in Santa Barbara on a Thursday, attributed to complications from a stroke.
Tagawa’s longtime manager, Margie Weiner, expressed her grief, stating, “Cary was a rare soul: generous, thoughtful, and endlessly committed to his craft.” She emphasized the depth of their relationship, stating he was like family.
A Prolific Career
Born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1949, Tagawa had ties to the performing arts through his actress mother and military father. His family eventually settled in Southern California, where he completed his education and passion for acting flourished. He even developed his own martial arts style, known as Chu Shin.
One of Tagawa’s significant early roles was in Bernardo Bertolucci’s film, The Last Emperor (1987). This film won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Tagawa described the experience working with Bertolucci as “mind boggling,” highlighting the dream-like quality of it.
Memorable Roles
- Shang Tsung: Tagawa’s portrayal of this character in the 1995 film Mortal Kombat solidified his status as a cult favorite.
- Other Films: He appeared in notable movies such as Licence to Kill (1989), Memoirs of a Geisha (2005), and Tekken (2010).
- Television: His television credits include series like Nash Bridges, Miami Vice, and Baywatch, showcasing his versatility across genres.
- Man in the High Castle: In this Emmy Award-winning series, Tagawa delivered a remarkable performance as Trade Minister Nobusuke Tagomi.
Tagawa didn’t just limit himself to live action; he also contributed his voice to Netflix’s 2023 animated series, Blue Eye Samurai.
Legacy
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the entertainment industry. His unique portrayals and contributions to both film and television have left an indelible mark. Fans, colleagues, and friends will remember him for his talent and the warmth he brought to his performances.
