**Nobuo Kaneko (1923-1995)** was a prolific Japanese actor, recognized for his ability to portray authoritative and often evil characters. He particularly distinguished himself in the role of yakuza bosses, cunning and ruthless criminal leaders, or corrupt figures of power.

His imposing stage presence, combined with a piercing gaze, made him an iconic face of Japanese genre cinema. He worked with prominent directors such as Kinji Fukasaku and Seijun Suzuki. He is best known for his role as Yoshio Yamamori in the *Jingi Naki Tatakai* (Battles Without Honor and Humanity) series, where he embodies an archetypal yakuza boss. Other memorable roles include those in Suzuki's *Tokyo Drifter* (1966) and *Branded to Kill* (1967). Kaneko left an indelible mark, becoming synonymous with the charismatic and complex ‘villain’ in Japanese cinema.