Akitake Kôno
Akitake Kôno (or Kohno), a prolific Japanese actor, is renowned for his extensive involvement in the *tokusatsu* genre, particularly in Toho's *kaiju* films. Throughout his film career, he frequently took on roles as authoritative and serious figures, such as military officers, scientists, or determined leaders in crisis situations that threatened humanity. His most memorable appearances include classics from the Godzilla saga, such as Captain Katsura in *Ebirah, Horror of the Deep* (1966), Police Lieutenant Kusaka in *Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla* (1974), and Dr. Mafune in *Terror of Mechagodzilla* (1975). Kôno stood out for his commanding presence and a measured performance style, lending credibility even to the most fantastical plots.