Tetsuro Tamba
Known For
Acting
Born
1922-07-17 in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
Died
2006-09-24
Biography
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.
Most Known For
Yonimo Kimyou na Monogatari Tokubetsuhen
Masked Blade
You Only Live Twice
as Tiger Tanaka
Yoshitsune
as Minamoto no Yorimasa (Gen-ji)
Inochi
as Takahara Masamichi
The Cat Returns
as Cat King (voice)
Shinran: Path to Purity
Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky
as Master Zhang
Harakiri
as Hikokuro Omodaka
Hashiran ka!
as 前田米吉
Toshiie and Matsu
as Tarozaemon Iguchi
HOTEL
as Ohara Tetsutaro
Sanada Taiheiki
as Sanada Masayuki
Ōgon no Hibi
as Imai Sōkyū
新幹線物語'93夏
as 黒木哲也
Teruo Ishii Fan Club
Marco Polo
as Vasaio
Gokenin Zankuro
G-Men in the Pacific
as Mizuhara
水曜ドラマ 宮本武蔵
as 平田無二斎