Ken Mitsuishi (光石 研, Mitsuishi Ken), born on September 11, 1961, in Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyūshū, is one of Japan's most prolific and respected actors in film and television. He made his debut at a young age, while still a high school student, in the film *Hakatakko Junjō* (1978), after winning an audition for the lead role. His career spans over four decades and is characterized by an extraordinary versatility that has allowed him to portray hundreds of roles. He has collaborated with internationally acclaimed directors such as Takeshi Kitano (in the *Outrage* series), Sion Sono (*Cold Fish*, *Love Exposure*), and Hirokazu Kore-eda. His countless performances include films such as *Eureka*, *Norwegian Wood*, and *Shin Godzilla*, as well as the popular television series *Byplayers*, where he plays a fictionalized version of himself alongside other renowned character actors. His talent has earned him numerous awards, including Best Supporting Actor at the Mainichi Film Awards and the Yokohama Film Festival, solidifying his status as a key figure in the Japanese film industry.