On December 4, 2025, the film and entertainment world lost a respected and memorable presence with the passing of actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa at his home in Santa Barbara, California. He was 75 years old. Known for his powerful performances, deep cultural presence, and iconic roles in films and television, Tagawa’s death followed complications from a recent stroke. He was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.
Born in Tokyo in 1950 to an American soldier and a Japanese actress, Tagawa spent his formative years moving between the United States and Japan, which cultivated a unique and graceful blend of cultural identity that he carried throughout his life and career.
After studying at the University of Southern California, he trained extensively in martial arts, eventually developing his own philosophy and system called Chuu-Shin, which combined physical discipline with spiritual mindfulness.
Tagawa’s acting career began in the mid-1980s and soon flourished. He became widely recognized for his commanding and nuanced portrayals, most notably as the sorcerer Shang Tsung in Mortal Kombat, the Japanese interpreter Nobusuke Tagomi in The Man in the High Castle, and for memorable roles in The Last Emperor, Planet of the Apes, and the James Bond film Licence to Kill. With a career spanning four decades, he brought intensity, dignity, and complexity to each character he played.
Off screen, Tagawa was a dedicated family man and a mentor to younger performers. He cherished time spent with his three children and enjoyed quieter hobbies such as fly-fishing and gardening, often splitting his time between California and Hawaii.
Tagawa’s legacy extends beyond his filmography. He was admired for his grace, cultural bridging, and the quiet strength he brought both to his art and his personal life. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and fans around the world.
Rest in peace, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa. Your presence on screen and your spirit off screen will not be forgotten.