Pat Morita

Pat Morita

Born:June 28, 1932

Place of Birth:Isleton, California, USA

Died:November 24, 2005

Known For:Acting

Biography

Pat Morita, born Noriyuki Morita on June 28, 1932, left a lasting impact on Hollywood with his memorable performances on both the small and big screens. As an actor of Japanese descent, Morita broke barriers and paved the way for greater representation in the industry. His portrayal of Matsuo "Arnold" Takahashi on the iconic television series Happy Days endeared him to audiences across the nation, showcasing his talent for both comedic timing and heartfelt moments.

However, it was Morita's role as Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid movie series that truly solidified his status as a beloved Hollywood legend. His portrayal of the wise and stoic karate master not only resonated with viewers but also earned him critical acclaim, including a nomination for the prestigious Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1984. Morita's performance as Mr. Miyagi transcended the screen, inspiring generations of fans with his wisdom, humility, and martial arts prowess.

Beyond his iconic roles in Happy Days and The Karate Kid, Morita's career spanned decades and encompassed a wide range of projects. From guest appearances on popular television shows to voice acting in animated series, Morita's versatility as an actor shone through in every role he undertook. His ability to infuse each character with depth and sincerity endeared him to audiences of all ages, making him a cherished figure in the entertainment industry.

Off-screen, Morita's personal journey was just as compelling as his on-screen performances. Overcoming adversity and discrimination, he forged a path for himself in Hollywood, breaking stereotypes and challenging conventions along the way. His resilience and determination served as an inspiration to many, proving that talent and perseverance know no boundaries.

Morita's legacy extends far beyond his time in front of the camera. As a trailblazer for Asian American representation in film and television, he opened doors for future generations of actors and artists to follow. His impact on popular culture continues to be felt today, with The Karate Kid franchise enduring as a timeless classic that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.

In addition to his acting career, Morita was also a devoted family man and philanthropist. His commitment to his loved ones and his charitable endeavors reflected his generous spirit and kind heart. Whether on set or in his personal life, Morita's warmth and authenticity endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

On November 24, 2005, the entertainment world mourned the loss of a true talent with the passing of Pat Morita. While his physical presence may be gone, his legacy lives on through his body of work and the impact he made on countless lives. Morita's contributions to the entertainment industry and his cultural significance continue to be celebrated and honored by fans around the globe.

In remembrance of Pat Morita, his contributions to the world of entertainment serve as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of representation. His portrayal of Mr. Miyagi remains a touchstone for audiences of all generations, imparting valuable lessons about perseverance, mentorship, and the true meaning of strength. Pat Morita's indelible mark on Hollywood will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were touched by his talent and his humanity.

Images

Pat Morita
Pat Morita
Pat Morita

Filmography

Acting

Mulan

Mulan

The Emperor (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.
The Karate Kid

The Karate Kid

Mr. Miyagi

1984

Daniel LaRusso moves to Los Angeles with his mother, Lucille, and soon strikes up a relationship with Ali. He quickly finds himself the target of bullying by a group of high school students, led by Ali's ex-boyfriend Johnny, who study karate at the Cobra Kai dojo under ruthless sensei, John Kreese. Fortunately, Daniel befriends Mr. Miyagi, an unassuming repairman who just happens to be a martial arts master himself. Miyagi takes Daniel under his wing, training him in a more compassionate form of karate for self-defense and, later, preparing him to compete against the brutal Cobra Kai.
The Karate Kid Part II

The Karate Kid Part II

Mr. Miyagi

1986

Summoned by his dying father, Miyagi returns to his homeland of Okinawa, with Daniel, after a 40-year exile. There he must confront Yukie, the love of his youth, and Sato, his former best friend turned vengeful rival. Sato is bent on a fight to the death, even if it means the destruction of their village. Daniel finds his own love in Yukia's niece, Kumiko, and his own enemy in Sato's nephew, the vicious Chozen. Now, far away from the tournaments, cheering crowds and safety of home, Daniel will face his greatest challenge ever when the cost of honor is life itself.
The Karate Kid Part III

The Karate Kid Part III

Mr. Miyagi

1989

Despondent over the closing of his karate school, Cobra Kai teacher John Kreese joins a ruthless businessman and martial artist to get revenge on Daniel and Mr. Miyagi.
Mulan II

Mulan II

The Emperor (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.
The Next Karate Kid

The Next Karate Kid

Mr. Miyagi

1994

Mr. Miyagi decides to take Julie, a troubled teenager, under his wing after he learns that she blames herself for her parents' demise and struggles to adjust with her grandmother and fellow pupils.
Inferno

Inferno

Jubal Early

1999

Eddie Lomax is a drifter who has been in a suicidal funk since the death of his close friend Johnny. Riding his motorcycle into a small desert town where Johnny once lived, Lomax is confronted by a gang of toughs, who beat him and steal his bike. However, Lomax is not a man to take an injustice lying down, and soon he begins exacting a violent revenge on the men who stole his motorcycle, with local handyman Jubal Early lending a hand and several area ladies offering aid and comfort.
Brother

Brother

Guy at the Poker Table

2000

A Japanese Yakuza gangster's deadly existence in his homeland gets him exiled to Los Angeles, where he is taken in by his little brother and his brother's gang.
Spy Hard

Spy Hard

Brian, Waiter in Restaurant

1996

The evil Gen. Rancor has his sights set on world domination, and only one man can stop him: Dick Steele, also known as Agent WD-40. Rancor needs to obtain a computer circuit for the missile that he is planning to fire, so Steele teams up with Veronique Ukrinsky, a KGB agent whose father designed the chip. Together they try to locate the evil mastermind's headquarters, where Veronique's father and several other hostages are being held.
Even Cowgirls Get the Blues

Even Cowgirls Get the Blues

The Chink

1994

A girl born with enormous thumbs in the repressive era of the 1950s learns to turn her quirks into assets.

Production