A renowned Japanese actor, celebrated for his versatility in playing diverse roles in films, television, and theater, earning him a reputation as a master of his craft.
Known for his versatility and impressive range, Jun Kunimura is a renowned Japanese actor who has made a name for himself in the film industries of Japan, Hollywood, and Hong Kong. With a career spanning over four decades, he has worked with prominent directors like Ridley Scott, Quentin Tarantino, and Roland Emmerich, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards along the way.
Born Yoshihiro Yonemura on November 15, 1955, in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, Kunimura's family moved to Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture, and later to Osaka, where he spent most of his childhood. He graduated from the Osaka Broadcasting Corporation's theatre program, where he was heavily influenced by actor Ysaku Matsuda.
Kunimura's acting career began with a small role in Shir Morita's 1973 disaster film Tidal Wave. He then appeared in several TV dramas, including Ayu no Uta and Yi don, before landing his first starring role in Kazuyuki Izutsu's Gaki Teikoku. Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, he worked on numerous Hong Kong-produced films, including a memorable cameo in John Woo's Hard Boiled.
In 1989, Kunimura made his American film debut in Ridley Scott's Black Rain, a Yakuza action film shot on location in Osaka, starring alongside his mentor Ysaku Matsuda. This marked the beginning of his collaborations with Western directors, including Quentin Tarantino and Roland Emmerich.
In 2016, Kunimura starred in Na Hong-jin's Korean horror film The Wailing, earning him the Best Supporting Actor and Popular Star Awards at the 37th Blue Dragon Film Awards, making him the first non-Korean actor to receive these honors.
Jun Kunimura's diverse filmography and collaborations with acclaimed directors have made him a respected figure in the film industry. His ability to effortlessly transition between Japanese, Hollywood, and Hong Kong productions has paved the way for other Asian actors to break into international cinema.
Kunimura's dedication to his craft and his willingness to take on challenging roles have inspired a new generation of actors, cementing his legacy as one of Japan's most influential actors of all time.
77 Years Old
A renowned Japanese filmmaker and comedian, known for his deadpan humor and critically acclaimed films that blend drama and comedy, earning him a cult following worldwide.
