Sonny Chiba: Kill Bill star dead at 82

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Veteran Japanese actor Sonny Chiba, best known for his role as Hanzo in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill, has died at the age of 82.

Chiba died today (August 19) of pneumonia caused by contracting Covid-19, his agent confirmed to Variety. He was first taken to hospital on 8 August.

Known as a skilled martial artist, Chiba rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s on television shows such as Street Fighter and Yakuza Cop.

He later gained additional recognition for his roles in several English language films, including Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill series in which he played the legendary sword-maker.

Chiba also starred as a villain in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift.

Horror film director Ted Geojegan led the tribute on social media, tweeting: The great Sonny Chiba passed away today at the age of 82, yet another victim of Covid-19.

“A six-belt martial arts legend who started in tokusatsu TV, Chiba has produced over 120 films for Toei and has been the most popular action star in Japan for decades. Watch one of his films today.”

The actor has worked profusely throughout his life, earning over 120 credits to his name.

Among his best Japanese films are: Champion of Death, Karate for Life, and Invasion of the Neptune Men.

He has worked for a number of famous names in world cinema including Tarantino, Justin Lin, Takashi Miki, and Kenji Fukasaku.

He also worked as a choreographer for the fight scene later in his career.

Sheba lives with a daughter and two sons.

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