Tao Okamoto (岡本 多緒 Okamoto Tao), born on May 22, 1985, is a prominent Japanese actress and model, celebrated for her significant contributions to the fashion industry alongside notable peers like Ai Tominaga and Hiroko Matsumoto. Rising to fame, she became one of the faces of Ralph Lauren in 2009, marking a pivotal moment in her career.
Tao, who hails from Chiba, Japan, began her modeling journey at the age of 14. In 2006, she made a strategic move to Paris to enhance her international career, quickly establishing herself as a key figure on European runways and becoming one of the few prominent East Asian models of her time. Two years later, she relocated to New York City, further expanding her influence.
Her extensive portfolio includes high-profile advertising campaigns for brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Emporio Armani, Kenzo, and Tommy Hilfiger, often collaborating with renowned photographers like Mario Testino and Alasdair McLellan. Additionally, her editorial work has graced the pages of notable publications including i-D Magazine, V Magazine, and various editions of Harper's Bazaar and Vogue.
Tao's accolades include being featured in the November 2009 issue of Vogue Nippon, which was dedicated to her, and earning titles such as the Japan Fashion Editor's Club "Model of the Year" and one of Vogue Nippon's "Women of the Year" in 2010. Her acting career includes notable roles in films like The Wolverine, where she portrayed Mariko Yashida, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, in which she played Mercy Graves. She has also made her mark on television with recurring roles in acclaimed series like Hannibal, The Man in the High Castle, and Westworld.
