Top 10 Popular Japanese Actors In 2024

Beyond Borders: Japanese Actors Redefining International Cinema
 
actors
  1. Hiroyuki Sanada

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Hiroyuki Sanada, born on October 12th, 1960, in Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan, gained international recognition through his role alongside Tom Cruise in "The Last Samurai," which marked his entry into Hollywood. His standout performance in "The Twilight Samurai" earned him the Japanese Academy Award.

  1. Ken Watanabe

Ken Watanabe, born on October 21st, 1959, in Koide, Japan, rose to fame for portraying tragic heroes in films like "The Last Samurai" and "Godzilla." Initially a stage actor, he's renowned for his portrayal of Samurai roles in Japanese cinema, and he also led the cast in "The King and I" on Broadway.

  1. Kento Yamazaki

Kento Yamazaki, born on September 7th, 1994, in Itabashi, Tokyo, is a prominent Japanese actor and model. His standout performances in series like "Death Note" and "Good Doctor" earned him accolades, including a Television Drama Academy Award. He's also appeared in films such as "Orange" and previously modeled for Pichi Lemon magazine.

  1. Brian Tee

Brian Tee, a Japanese American actor born in Okinawa, Japan, on March 15th, is best known for his role as Dr. Ethan Choi in the popular medical drama "Chicago Med." His portrayal extended to spin-off series like "Chicago Fire" and "Chicago P.D.," and he's also featured in films like "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift" and "Jurassic World."

  1. Tadanobu Asano

Tadanobu Asano, a multi-talented Japanese actor, guitarist, musician, singer, film director, and model, commenced his acting career at 16, gaining acclaim in films like "Maborosi" and "Fried Dragon Fish." Additionally, he's contributed as a vocalist for the band Mach 1.67.

  1. Masi Oka

Masi Oka, born on December 27th, 1974, in Hibiya City, Tokyo, achieved fame for his role as Hiro Nakamura in the series "Heroes," earning Emmy and Saturn Award nominations. Apart from acting, he holds a black belt in Japanese fencing, is an avid chess player, and was a translator at the 1992 Summer Olympics.

  1. Mamoru Miyano

Mamoru Miyano, born on June 8th, 1983, in Saitama Prefecture, is a versatile Japanese actor, singer, and child actor. Renowned for his award-winning voice role as Light Yagami in the manga series "Death Note," he's also an anime artist and a skilled harmonica player, releasing singles like "Kuon" and "Discovery."

  1. Takeshi Kitano

Takeshi Kitano, a Japanese comedian, TV presenter, author, actor, and filmmaker born on January 18th, 1947, in Adachi, Tokyo, initially gained fame as one-half of the comedy duo Two Beat. Transitioning into solo acts, he became a top comedian, later excelling in acting and directing, winning the Golden Lion award in 1997.

  1. Daisuke Ono

Daisuke Ono, born on May 4th, 1978, in Sakawa, Takaoka District, Kochi Prefecture, Japan, initially aimed for a career in TV broadcasting but shifted to acting after encountering criticism. He's now a Seiyu Award-winning voice actor known for his roles in manga series like "Black Butler" and "JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure."

  1. Antonio Inoki

Antonio Inoki, a Japanese actor, politician, professional wrestler, and writer, born on February 20th, 1943, in Yokohama, is a revered martial artist and wrestler. He established the New Japan Pro Wrestling after being mentored by Rikidōzan and had a significant impact on cinematic techniques, with directors like Akira Kurosawa inspiring both Japanese and Western filmmakers.