Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Star of ‘Mortal Kombat’ and ‘The Man in the High Castle,’ Passes Away at Age 75

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, widely recognized for his portrayal of the sinister sorcerer Shang Tsung in the Mortal Kombat series as well as notable roles in The Last Emperor, Licence to Kill, and The Man in the High Castle, passed away on Thursday in Santa Barbara due to complications from a stroke. He was 75.

Tagawa made his screen debut in Bernardo Bertoluccis acclaimed film The Last Emperor, which opened the door to his performance as the antagonist Kwang in the James Bond film Licence to Kill.

On television, he appeared frequently, holding a recurring role on Nash Bridges and making guest appearances on popular series such as Miami Vice, Knots Landing, Moonlighting, and Baywatch.

His enduring association with the Mortal Kombat franchise began with the 1995 live-action film, later continuing in the 2013 series Mortal Kombat: Legacy, and extending to his voice role in the video game Mortal Kombat 11.

Tagawas filmography also includes performances in Rising Sun, Snow Falling on Cedars, Pearl Harbor, Planet of the Apes, and Memoirs of a Geisha. He starred as Trade Minister Nobusuke Tagomi in Amazons The Man in the High Castle, and appeared as Hiroki Watanabe in Netflixs Lost in Space.

Although often cast as a villain, Tagawa spoke in 2007 about embracing those roles as part of building his career, noting that the opportunity to play heroic characters might never have come without first excelling in darker portrayals.

Born in Tokyo to an actress mother and a Japanese American father serving in the U.S. military, Tagawa moved to the Los Angeles area during his youth, where he discovered acting before attending USC. He later developed and taught his own martial arts discipline, Chu Shin.

Tagawa is survived by his children Calen, Byrnne, and Cana, as well as his grandchildren, River and Thea Clayton.

Author's Commentary: Remembering Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa's passing at the age of 75 marks the loss of a versatile actor whose career spanned film, television, and video games. Known globally for his role as Shang Tsung in the "Mortal Kombat" franchise, Tagawa brought a distinct intensity and depth to his performances, making even antagonistic characters memorable.

From his debut in Bernardo Bertolucci’s "The Last Emperor" to appearances in major films like "Licence to Kill" and "Pearl Harbor," Tagawa consistently demonstrated range and professionalism. On television, his recurring roles and guest appearances in series such as "Nash Bridges," "Moonlighting," and "Baywatch" showcased his adaptability across genres.

Beyond acting, Tagawa contributed to martial arts through the development and teaching of Chu Shin, reflecting his dedication to discipline and personal growth. While often cast as a villain, he acknowledged that these roles were instrumental in shaping his career and opening opportunities for more heroic portrayals.

Tagawa leaves behind his children and grandchildren, as well as a legacy of performances that continue to influence actors and audiences alike. His work will be remembered not only for the characters he portrayed but also for the commitment and artistry he brought to every role.

Sources:

• Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Actor in ‘Mortal Kombat’ and ‘The Man in the High Castle,’ Dies at 75

Author: Grace Ellison
Grace Ellison is a journalist focusing on environmental issues and sustainability. She has experience publishing international reports and participating in documentary projects.