Biography for
James Shigeta More at IMDbPro »

Date of Birth

17 June 1933, Hawaii, USA

Height

5' 9½" (1.77 m)

Mini Biography

Hawaiian-born James Shigeta was for a time the biggest Asian-American star the country had known for decades. His up-and-down career reflected America's changing interest in films with Eastern themes, but when called upon he filled both A-movie starring roles and minor TV guest appearances with the same cool and classy style. An aspiring song-and-dance man early in his career, he had a series of romantic leading roles in the late fifties culminating in his most important one, the lead in Ross Hunter's glitzy production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's musical Flower Drum Song (1961). Supporting parts followed, his last showy turn coming again from Ross Hunter, with star billing and his own production number in the ill-fated musical remake of Lost Horizon (1973). Along the way there have been many notable TV guest appearances showcasing Shigeta's facility with both sympathetic and villainous roles. His status as the foremost Asian leading man of 20th century American film will endure undiminished by an erratic career.

IMDb Mini Biography By: David Durrett

Trivia

One of six children born to a Honolulu contractor, he was educated at New York University where he majored in English.

Discovered as a singer by TV's "Ted Mack's Amateur Hour" where he won first place and an annual scholarship prize. This led to Vegas and nightclub appearances. Pat Boone and Ann-Margret are other celebrities who benefited from Ted Mack's popular show.

Speaks fluent Japanese, French and Italian.

The first Asian-American to crack the old Hollywood studio star system, albeit briefly, groomed as a romantic leading man.

On April 18, 2005, he was awarded a Visionary Award from East West Players, the nation's premier Asian American theatre organization.

Chosen by Goldsea Asian American Daily as one of the "100 Most Inspiring Asian Americans of All Time".

Personal Quotes

I think an actor's life is necessarily self-involved. And that's what I would like to get away from.

I have never personally referred to myself as a star. When asked I always say, 'I'm an actor, a working actor.' I think the term 'star' is a vastly overused expression. That term has been used in reference to me but it is not of my own choice.