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Shintaro KatsuJapanese film actor
Date of Birth: 29.11.1931
Country:  Japan |
Content:
Early Life and Family
Shintaro Katsu, fondly called "Katsu-shin" by the Japanese, was born into a family of thespians. His father, Katsutouji Kinneya, was a renowned kabuki actor, and his mother, Yaeko, was his wife.
Acting Career
ZatoichiKatsu-shin's breakthrough role came in the 1960s and 1970s when he portrayed the blind swordsman Zatoichi in a series of films that spanned nearly 30 years. He starred in 25 films between 1962 and 1973, directed the 26th in 1989, and starred in four television seasons. The Zatoichi films became highly successful and are considered among the greatest works of Japanese cinema.
Other Notable Roles
Beyond Zatoichi, Katsu-shin also showcased his versatility in other notable productions. He produced films such as "Lone Wolf and Cub" (starring his brother, Tomisaburo Wakayama) and "Nemuri Kyoshiro."
Personal Life
RelationshipsKatsu-shin had a romantic relationship with Mineko Iwasaki, who became one of Japan's most successful geisha. He was later married to actress Tamao Nakamura, and their son, Ryutaro Gan, also became an actor.
Health and Death
In his later years, Katsu-shin's excessive consumption of alcohol and cigarettes took a toll on his health. He spent increasing time in the hospital and rarely made public appearances, except for press conferences about his impending recovery, where he was often seen with a cigar.
Katsu-shin passed away on June 21, 1997, at the age of 65, from complications of cancer.
Memorial Service
A memorial service was held at a Tokyo temple on June 23, attended by over five thousand mourners.
