Ken Takakura

Ken Takakura (October 16, 1931 – November 10, 2014) was a Japanese actor. Takakura was known in Japan for his taciturn persona and soft-spoken voice. He was popular both domestically and internationally, having starred in over 200 films during his 50-year career.

Takakura was born on October 16, 1931, in Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. He dropped out of high school at the age of 17 and worked as a stevedore and a taxi driver before being discovered by a talent scout. Takakura made his film debut in 1956 in the film "The Sun's Burial". He quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the most popular actors in Japan.

Takakura is best known for his roles in the films "Black Rain" (1989), "The Yakuza" (1974), and "Ran" (1985). He also starred in a number of popular television dramas, including "The Last Samurai" (1974) and "Kita no Kuni kara" (1981).

Takakura received numerous awards for his work, including the Japan Academy Film Prize for Best Actor five times. He was also awarded the Order of Culture, the highest honor that can be bestowed upon an artist in Japan.

Takakura died on November 10, 2014, at the age of 83. He was suffering from lymphoma at the time of his death.

Takakura was a respected and beloved figure in Japan. He was known for his professionalism, his dedication to his craft, and his kind and gentle nature.