George Takei

Born:April 20, 1937

Place of Birth:Los Angeles, California, USA

Known For:Acting

Biography

George Takei, born George Hosato Takei Altman on April 20, 1937, is a trailblazing American actor whose career has spanned decades. While he is widely recognized for his iconic role as Hikaru Sulu in the legendary television series Star Trek, Takei's contributions to the entertainment industry and society at large extend far beyond his time on the USS Enterprise.

Takei's commitment to social justice and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights has solidified his status as a beloved figure both on and off the screen. His fearless approach to speaking out on important issues has earned him a reputation as a passionate activist, using his platform to promote inclusivity and equality.

In addition to his acting prowess, Takei's involvement in state and local politics showcases his dedication to making a positive impact on the world around him. His work with the Japanese American National Museum has further solidified his legacy as a champion of Japanese-American relations and history.

Throughout his career, Takei has garnered a multitude of awards and accolades for his efforts in promoting human rights and cultural understanding. His influence extends far beyond the realm of entertainment, as he continues to inspire audiences with his unwavering commitment to social change.

Beyond his on-screen achievements, Takei's personal story as a Japanese-American actor breaking barriers in Hollywood is a testament to his resilience and determination. His experiences have shaped him into a multifaceted individual whose impact reaches far beyond the confines of the entertainment industry.

As a cultural icon, Takei's legacy is defined not only by his groundbreaking role in Star Trek but also by his tireless advocacy for marginalized communities and underrepresented voices. His ability to bridge the gap between entertainment and activism has made him a revered figure in both realms, earning him a lasting place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

With a career marked by innovation and inclusivity, Takei continues to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes, paving the way for future generations of actors and activists to follow in his footsteps. His enduring impact on popular culture and social change cements his status as a true pioneer in the industry.

George Takei's influence transcends the screen, leaving an indelible mark on the worlds of entertainment, politics, and social justice. His dedication to amplifying marginalized voices and advocating for a more equitable society serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Mulan

First Ancestor (voice)

1998

To save her father from certain death in the army, a young woman secretly enlists in his place and becomes one of China's greatest heroines in the process.

You Don't Mess with the Zohan

George Takei

2008

An Israeli counterterrorism soldier with a secretly fabulous ambition to become a Manhattan hairstylist. Zohan's desire runs so deep that he'll do anything -- including faking his own death and going head-to-head with an Arab cab driver -- to make his dreams come true.

Mulan II

First Ancestor (voice)

2004

Fa Mulan gets the surprise of her young life when her love, Captain Li Shang asks for her hand in marriage. Before the two can have their happily ever after, the Emperor assigns them a secret mission, to escort three princesses to Chang'an, China. Mushu is determined to drive a wedge between the couple after he learns that he will lose his guardian job if Mulan marries into the Li family.

Entourage

George Takei

2015

Movie star Vincent Chase, together with his boys, Eric, Turtle and Johnny, are back…and back in business with super agent-turned-studio head Ari Gold. Some of their ambitions have changed, but the bond between them remains strong as they navigate the capricious and often cutthroat world of Hollywood.

Kubo and the Two Strings

Hosato (voice)

2016

Kubo mesmerizes the people in his village with his magical gift for spinning wild tales with origami. When he accidentally summons an evil spirit seeking vengeance, Kubo is forced to go on a quest to solve the mystery of his fallen samurai father and his mystical weaponry, as well as discover his own magical powers.

Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home

Sulu

1986

When a huge alien probe enters the galaxy and begins to vaporize Earth's oceans, Kirk and his crew must travel back in time in order to bring back whales and save the planet.

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan

Cmdr. Hikaru Sulu

1982

The starship Enterprise and its crew is pulled back into action when old nemesis, Khan, steals a top secret device called Project Genesis.

Larry Crowne

Dr. Matsutani

2011

When he suddenly finds himself without his long-standing blue-collar job, Larry Crowne enrolls at his local college to start over. There, he becomes part of an eclectic community of students and develops a crush on his teacher.

Star Trek V: The Final Frontier

Cmdr. Hikaru Sulu

1989

A renegade Vulcan with a startling secret hijacks the U.S.S. Enterprise in order to find a mythical planet.

Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank

Ohga (voice)

2022

A hard-on-his-luck hound finds himself in a town full of cats in need of a hero to defend them from a ruthless villain's wicked plot to wipe their village off the map. With help from a reluctant mentor, our underdog must assume the role of town samurai and team up with the villagers to save the day.

Star Trek III: The Search for Spock

Cmdr. Hikaru Sulu

1984

A surprise visit from Spock's father provides a startling revelation: McCoy is harboring Spock's living essence.

Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country

Captain Hikaru Sulu

1991

After years of war, the Federation and the Klingon empire find themselves on the brink of a peace summit when a Klingon ship is nearly destroyed by an apparent attack from the Enterprise. Both worlds brace for what may be their deadliest encounter.

The Green Berets

Captain Nim

1968

Col. Mike Kirby picks two teams of crack Green Berets for two missions in South Vietnam. The first is to strengthen a camp that is trying to be taken by the enemy. The second is to kidnap a North Vietnamese General.

For the Love of Spock

Self

2016

The life of Mr. Spock, as well as that of Leonard Nimoy, the actor who played him for almost fifty years, written and directed by his son: Adam.

King Kong vs. Godzilla

Osamu Sakurai (voice) (uncredited)

1963

When an underhanded pharmaceutical company goes to a remote tropical island to steal King Kong for advertising purposes, they get more than they bargained for when the gigantic ape attacks an unsuspecting village and an enormous octopus.

Futurama: Bender's Game

George Takei (voice)

2008

When Leela is insulted by a group of space-rednecks (like regular rednecks, but in space) she enters the Planet Express ship in a demolition derby. She emerges victorious, but when she brings the damaged ship home and the Professor sees the fuel gauge, he's enraged by the hit he's going to take at the Dark Matter pump. Now the crew have to find a way to break Mom's stranglehold on starship fuel, even if they have to wade through a Lord of the Rings-inspired fantasy-land to do it!