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James Shigeta’s Best Roles

by Legacy Staff

Actor and singer James Shigeta died July 28, 2014.

Born June 17, 1929, in Honolulu to second-generation Japanese immigrants, Shigeta made a name for himself as one of Hollywood’s first prominent Asian-American leading men. After studying drama at New York University and serving in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War, Shigeta found fame in America through such films as Midway, Flower Drum Song, the first Die Hard and Paradise, Hawaiian Style. Shigeta’s distinctive voice also brought him great success in Japan, despite his inability to speak the language when he first arrived, earning the actor-crooner the nickname “the Sinatra of Japan.” His career spanned more than 50 years, including dozens of films and TV appearances.

Visit the online Guest Book for James Shigeta where you can share memories and condolences.

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