Tetsuro Tamba

Tetsuro Tamba

1922-07-17

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 G-Men '75. His talents weren't confined to the screen alone. Tamba lent his voice to characters like the Cat King in Studio Ghibli's The Cat Returns and graced historical roles in television dramas, leaving an indelible mark on period pieces. In 2005, Tamba faced health challenges but continued to contribute until the end. Sadly, he passed away in Tokyo at 84 due to pneumonia on September 24, 2006. His legacy lives on through his son, actor Yoshitaka Tamba, while his last appearances in the 2005 Taiga drama Yoshitsune and the 2006 film Sinking of Japan remain a testament to his enduring impact on Japanese cinema and beyond.

Also appears in

You Only Live Twice

You Only Live Twice

6.6

The Cat Returns

The Cat Returns

7.1

Harakiri

Harakiri

8.4

Kwaidan

Kwaidan

7.7

Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky

Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky

6.8

The Twilight Samurai

The Twilight Samurai

7.8

Crayon Shin-chan: Explosion! The Hot Spring’s Feel Good Final Battle

Crayon Shin-chan: Explosion! The Hot Spring’s Feel Good Final Battle

6.7

Three Outlaw Samurai

Three Outlaw Samurai

7.5

Fireflies in the North

Fireflies in the North

5.3

Gozu

Gozu

6.8

Battles Without Honor and Humanity

Battles Without Honor and Humanity

7.4

Zero Woman: Red Handcuffs

Zero Woman: Red Handcuffs

6.4

The Bullet Train

The Bullet Train

6.8

The Happiness of the Katakuris

The Happiness of the Katakuris

6.9

The Castle of Sand

The Castle of Sand

7.3

Sakuya: The Slayer of Demons

Sakuya: The Slayer of Demons

6.2

Shogun’s Ninja

Shogun’s Ninja

6.1

Bohachi Bushido: Code of the Forgotten Eight

Bohachi Bushido: Code of the Forgotten Eight

6.6

The Fall of Ako Castle

The Fall of Ako Castle

6.6

Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Proxy War

Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Proxy War

7.2