
Jun Tazaki
Jun Tazaki (born Minoru Tanaka; Tokyo, 1913–1985) was a prolific Japanese actor. After beginning his career in theater, he became one of the best-known faces of Toho Studios, with a film career spanning over four decades. He is best known for his roles in numerous *kaiju eiga* films, where he often portrayed authoritative figures such as generals, scientists, or government officials. His most iconic performances include those in *Atragon* (1963), *King Kong vs. Godzilla* (1962), and *Destroy All Monsters* (1968). In addition to science fiction, Tazaki demonstrated his versatility by working with director Akira Kurosawa on acclaimed films such as *The Bad Sleep Well* (1960) and *High and Low* (1963). Although he did not receive major international awards, his recognition lies in his consistent presence and reliability, which made him one of the most respected and recognizable character actors of post-war Japanese cinema, leaving an indelible mark on his country's cinematic landscape.

