Tetsuro Tamba
1922-07-17 ( 102 years old ) in Tokyo, Japan

Tetsuro Tamba (July 17, 1922 – September 24, 2006) was a distinguished Japanese actor known for his versatile talent across five decades. Recognized globally for his portrayal of Tiger Tanaka in the iconic 1967 James Bond film "You Only Live Twice," Tamba's cinematic journey was a remarkable blend of cultural bridges. Before embarking on his acting career, Tamba worked as an interpreter for the Allied Powers' Supreme Commander. Graduating from Chuo University in 1948, he later joined Shintoho company, making his debut in the film Satsujin Yougishain in 1951. Tamba's impact on Western audiences extended beyond Bond, with standout performances in films like Bridge to the Sun and The 7th Dawn. He earned acclaim in Japan as well, most notably as the lead in police dramas like Key Hunter and G-Men '75. His talents weren't confined to the screen alone. Tamba lent his voice to characters like the Cat King in Studio Ghibli's The Cat Returns and graced historical roles in television dramas, leaving an indelible mark on period pieces. In 2005, Tamba faced health challenges but continued to contribute until the end. Sadly, he passed away in Tokyo at 84 due to pneumonia on September 24, 2006. His legacy lives on through his son, actor Yoshitaka Tamba, while his last appearances in the 2005 Taiga drama Yoshitsune and the 2006 film Sinking of Japan remain a testament to his enduring impact on Japanese cinema and beyond.

Movies

Demon Pond 2005-05-25
Gozu 2003-07-11
Yakuza Demon 2003-06-25
T.R.Y. 2003-01-11
Best Ever Bond 2002-11-22
Shura Group 2002-02-16
Japanese Hell 1999-11-20
Screwed 1998-06-17
The Peking Man 1997-12-20
Yakuza Warfare 1991-11-09
Kim's War 1991-04-05
Heat Wave 1991-02-09
13 Assassins 1990-03-28
Tokyo Pop 1988-04-15
Tabaruzaka 1987-12-30
Night Train 1987-01-17
Tokyo Blackout 1987-01-16
Be Free! 1986-08-09
April Fish 1986-05-31
Cabaret 1986-04-26
Zero 1984-08-11
Kukai 1984-04-13
The Geisha 1983-09-10
Battle Anthem 1983-06-04
Suspicion 1982-09-11
The Wild Daisy 1981-08-08
Shogun's Ninja 1980-11-15
Port Arthur 1980-08-02
The Sand Boat 1980-05-31
Dead Angle 1979-07-04
Nichiren 1979-03-10
Never Give Up 1978-10-07
The Incident 1978-06-03
Mount Hakkoda 1977-06-04
Murderer! 1976-10-16
Zero Fighter 1976-10-02
Conflagration 1975-07-12
Tidal Wave 1975-05-28
Wild Cop 2 1973-12-01
Informal Dress 1972-10-12
Shadow Hunters 1972-06-10
Silence 1971-11-13
The Wolves 1971-10-30
The 5-Man Army 1969-10-16
Lone Rebel 1969-09-13
Sky Scraper! 1969-05-14
Goyokin 1969-05-01
Black Lizard 1968-08-14
The Bad Boss 1968-05-06
The Kii River 1966-06-11
Blood and Law 1965-08-29
Samurai Spy 1965-07-10
The Gambler 1965-07-10
Kwaidan 1965-01-06
Detective 1964-12-05
Revenge 1964-11-01
The Great Duel 1964-09-05
The 7th Dawn 1964-09-02
Assassination 1964-07-04
Homicide 1964-06-20
An Outlaw 1964-04-05
13 Assassins 1963-12-07
Tange Sazen 1963-11-17
Gang vs. G-Men 1962-11-02
Hell's Kitchen 1962-10-12
Harakiri 1962-09-15
Gang vs. Gang 1962-07-13
Four Sisters 1962-07-01
The Challenge 1962-03-28
All Rascals 1962-03-21
Kaachan 1961-03-15
Get 'em All 1960-11-29
Mukeisatsu 1959-04-17
A Wicked Woman 1958-02-25
Queen of Asia 1957-12-28
Speed King 1956-04-11
花眞珠 1955-08-22
Hanran 1954-01-03