Actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, known for his role in 'Mortal Kombat,' passes away at the age of 75

Dec. 5 Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, widely recognized for his role in the Mortal Kombat franchise, has passed away at the age of 75 due to complications following a stroke, according to his family.

Tagawa gained fame for his portrayal of the iconic antagonist Shang Tsung in the 1995 film Mortal Kombat, its 1997 follow-up Mortal Kombat Annihilation, and the subsequent television adaptations released in 2013 and 2015. He also voiced the character in the popular video game Mortal Kombat 11.

Outside the Mortal Kombat universe, Tagawa appeared in notable films including Pearl Harbor, Rising Sun, Elektra, and Memoirs of a Geisha. He also featured in the Prime Video series The Man in the High Castle alongside Rufus Sewell.

"I had the privilege of representing Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa for many years as his manager, but our connection became something far deeper," said his manager Margie Weiner. "He was like family to me. Cary had a rare spirit: generous, thoughtful, and passionately devoted to his craft. His loss is beyond measure. My heart goes out to his loved ones."

Tagawa's passing was also confirmed by his representative, Penny Vizcarra, to USA Today.

Author: Chloe Ramirez