Ainosuke Kataoka

Ainosuke Kataoka, the sixth generation of his lineage, is also known as Yamamoto Hiroyuki. Born on March 4, 1972, in Jinnanbe-cho, Sakai-ku, Osaka, Hiroyuki grew up in a family that operated a manufacturing business, with no ties to the Kabuki theater. His journey in acting began at the tender age of five when he successfully auditioned for a child actor role with Shochiku Geino, marking the start of his formal training and stage exposure. His debut on television came through a child role in NHK's Galaxy TV Novel series, simultaneously launching his Kabuki career under his birth name.

In 1983, his exceptional talent caught the eye of the renowned Kataoka Jinzaemon XIII, leading to an apprenticeship under Kataoka Hidetaro II. During this period, he took on the names Kataoka Chiyonosuke and Kataoka Chiyomaru, showcasing his skills in significant Kabuki performances, notably "Kanjincho" at the Kyoto Minamiza.

In 1993, Hidetaro II adopted him as his successor, and that year he portrayed Sugawa Jiro in "Kanjincho" at Nakaza in Osaka. He ascended to the title of Kataoka Ainosuke VI in 1994, solidifying his place in Kabuki history. Ainosuke married actress Fujiwara Norika on September 23, 2016, blending two artistic talents. Throughout his career, Ainosuke has made substantial contributions to Kabuki, earning acclaim for his performances and continuing the rich legacy of his family.