Tetsuro Tamba

Acting · Born 1922-07-17 in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

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…

Filmography

• Kwaidan as Warrior (segment "Hoichi the Earless")
• The Cat Returns as Cat King (voice)
• The Happiness of the Katakuris as Granpa Jinpei Katakuri
• Harakiri as Hikokuro Omodaka
• The Twilight Samurai as Tozaemon Iguchi
• You Only Live Twice as Tiger Tanaka
• Minamoto Yoshitsune
• Spycatcher J3: SOS Close Shave as J1 (TULIP Japan Branch Chief)
• Pigs and Battleships as Slasher Tetsuji
• Demon Pond

TV

• Yoshitsune as Minamoto no Yorimasa (Gen-ji)
• Yonimo Kimyou na Monogatari Tokubetsuhen
• Toshiie and Matsu as Tarozaemon Iguchi
• Gokenin Zankuro
• Sanada Taiheiki as Sanada Masayuki
• Marco Polo as Vasaio
• Masked Blade