This always p**ses me off. Professor Toru Tanaka died last year at the age of 70, and I never heard a thing about it.
So I'm starting this belated thread in honor of his memory. What are your favorite moments of the Professor put to film?
I of course enjoy his role as the villain Subzero in THE RUNNING MAN. I also enjoyed his cameo in PEE WEE'S BIG ADVENTURE.
I have to say I've always enjoyed his presence on screen. I'm sorry this big man of intelligence had to pass away. I'd say so soon, but 70 is a ripe old age, and he never looked anywhere near that age. He did THE RUNNING MAN when he was 57, which I never would have guessed.
So in honor of the more than honorable Professor, I dedicate this thread to his inimitable presence on the cinema screen. Tell me your impressions.
http://us.imdb.com/Name?Tanaka,+Professor+Toru
Wasn't he in wrestling like w/ Mr Saito?
This was the first I had heard of his passing. He will be missed. It was a lot like this with Steve James (American Ninja I & II, Delta Force) who I didn't know had passed on for over a year after his death.
This is what his IMDb entry has to say:
"Former 3 time WWWF (now WWF) Tag Team Champion, with Mr Fuji. "
Hercules Hernandez could not be reached for comment. I wonder if Tanaka was on that WWF Rock'n Wrestling album.