Japanese American actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa has tragically passed away at the age of 75. He was best known for his role as evil sorcerer Shang Tsung in 1995’s Mortal Kombat. He was active in the industry for more than four decades. Many tributes have poured in since the news of his passing broke.
Tributes pour in after Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa’s death
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, who began his career with Bernardo Bertolucci’s epic drama The Last Emperor, has died at the age of 75 at his home in Santa Barbara, California, allegedly from complications of a stroke. He was reportedly surrounded by his children at the time of his death.
Tagawa was renowned for his villainous roles and starred in over 30 films after his breakthrough with Berolucci’s classic. His most defining role came in the 1995 film Mortal Kombat, where he played the iconic villain, Shang Tsung, a character that has since captured the imagination of fans across the globe. He reprised the role in the 2013 television series, Mortal Kombat: Legacy, and voiced Tsung in the video game Mortal Kombat 11.
His other acclaimed works include the James Bond film Licence to Kill (1989) and Amazon’s The Man in the High Castle.
Many paid tribute to the actor upon his demise. “So sad to hear Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa has passed away. He will forever be the definitive Shang Tsung. His 1995 performance didn’t just bring the character to life, it defined the character,” one user wrote on X, and added, “His return and performance in MK11 Aftermath was one of the best moments in the entire series. It was a strong reminder that he truly was the definitive Shang Tsung for all time. His soul will remain present in the series forever. Rest in Peace, Cary Tagawa.”
Meanwhile, another user wrote, “RIP Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa. I will never forget your iconic role as Shang Tsung. Mortal Kombat was a big part of many children’s lives when I was growing up and your performance was a gift to all of us.” Yet another user wrote, “RIP to Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa. You will always be my Shang Tsung.”
Originally reported by Sourav Chakraborty on Mandatory
