"Japanese American actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, best known for playing evil sorcerer Shang Tsung in "Mortal Kombat," died Thursday at 75 due to complications from a stroke. Discovered by director Bernardo Bertolucci, Tagawa starred in "The Last Emperor" in 1987 and went on to appear in more than 30 films. Known for his graceful menace and elegant villainy, he was remembered as a warm, charismatic mentor to younger actors and martial artists."
"Tagawa was born in Japan and raised partly on U.S. military bases before coming to Los Angeles, where he taught his own style of martial arts called Chu Shin. He was discovered by Bernardo Bertolucci and cast in "The Last Emperor," which was released in 1987. His role in the Oscar-winning epic quickly propelled him to fame, and he went on to star in more than 30 films, many of which showcased his combat skills."
""I had the privilege of representing Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa for many years as his long time manager, but our relationship grew into something far deeper - he became like family," said manager Margie Weiner in a statement. "Cary was a rare soul: generous, thoughtful, and endlessly committed to his craft. His loss is immeasurable. My heart is with his family, friends, and all who loved him.""
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, a Japanese American actor, died at 75 of complications from a stroke in Santa Barbara while surrounded by family. He was born in Japan and raised partly on U.S. military bases before moving to Los Angeles. He taught a martial art called Chu Shin and used his combat skills across more than 30 films. He was discovered by Bernardo Bertolucci and cast in The Last Emperor (1987), which launched his career. He became known for portraying elegant, cunning villains, with his most defining role as Shang Tsung in the 1995 Mortal Kombat film. He was remembered as generous, thoughtful, and a mentor.
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