Reiko Sato

Reiko Sato (Japanese: レイコ・佐藤; December 19, 1931 – May 28, 1981) was a distinguished American dancer and actress, renowned for her contributions to both film and theater. Born in Los Angeles, California, to Ken-ichi Sato, an issei Zen Buddhist priest, and his wife Chieko, Sato's early life was marked by the internment of her family at the Gila River War Relocation Center during World War II. After the war, her mother became a successful real estate investor, while Reiko pursued her passion for the performing arts, graduating from Belmont High School in 1949 and continuing her ballet studies at Los Angeles City College.

Sato gained fame for her role as Helen Chao in the 1961 film "Flower Drum Song," which showcased her skills as both an actress and a dancer. She also appeared in "The Ugly American," where she received personal guidance from Marlon Brando, with whom she had a close relationship. Although she was signed with major studios like Fox and Universal, her Hollywood career did not flourish, leading her to retire from the industry.

Her stage accomplishments included her debut as the original Princess of Ababu in the Broadway production of "Kismet" and the lead role in the national tour of "The Teahouse of the August Moon." Additionally, she performed in "Destry Rides Again" on Broadway and was slated to appear in the musical "Chu Chem" before its cancellation.

In her later years, Sato actively supported initiatives for Asian-American representation in the arts. She passed away from a brain aneurysm on May 28, 1981, and her ashes were divided between a Buddhist temple and Marlon Brando's private island. Her life story was later chronicled in the biography "Reiko Sato" by Samuel Clemens, published on February 4, 2022.