Tetsuya Watari

Tetsuya Watari, a celebrated Japanese actor and singer, graduated from Aoyama Gakuin University, where he actively participated in the karate club. He embarked on his acting career in 1964 with his debut in Isamu Kosugi's film "Abare Kishidō," earning him an Elan d'or Award. During his time at Nikkatsu, Watari starred in iconic films such as "Tokyo Drifter" and the "Outlaw" series, solidifying his reputation in the industry. Under the guidance of mentor Yujiro Ishihara, he became a prominent figure in Japanese cinema.

As the 1970s approached, Nikkatsu's pivot to Roman Porno films prompted Watari to seek opportunities elsewhere. Although he was originally set to lead Kinji Fukasaku’s "Battles Without Honor and Humanity," he had to withdraw due to health issues. His struggles continued when he left the NHK Taiga drama "Katsu Kaishū" after just nine episodes in 1974. However, his performance in Fukasaku's "Yakuza Graveyard" garnered him the prestigious Blue Ribbon Award for Best Actor in 1976.

Watari is perhaps most fondly remembered for his portrayal of Keisuke Daiomon in the detective series "Seibu Keisatsu" and later replaced Yujiro Ishihara in "Taiyō ni Hoero!" in 1986. Following Ishihara's passing in 1987, Watari took the helm of Ishihara Promotion but stepped down in 2011 due to health challenges. After undergoing heart surgery in 2015, he entered rehabilitation.

A talented singer, Watari is known for his hit "Kuchinashi no Hana" and made appearances in the renowned Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 1974 and 1993. He passed away from pneumonia on August 10, 2020, at the age of 78,