Akiji Kobayashi

Akiji Kobayashi (小林昭二, Kobayashi Akiji, September 6, 1930 – August 27, 1996), also recognized as Shōji Kobayashi, was a prominent Japanese actor whose career spanned several decades. He began his journey at Nihon University College of Art but left before earning his degree to join the Haiyuza Theatre Company in 1949. His cinematic debut occurred in 1952 with the film Satsujin Yogisha.

Kobayashi gained international fame for his portrayal of Captain Toshio Muramatsu in the iconic 1966-1967 series Ultraman. His television career continued to flourish with a notable role in the detective series Seibu Keisatsu from 1983 to 1984. Additionally, he became well-known for his character Tōbei Tachibana, affectionately referred to as "Oya-san," in various installments of the Kamen Rider series. A favorite of renowned director Kon Ichikawa, Kobayashi appeared in 12 of his films, with his last performance being in Yatsuhaka-mura as the Head of a Factory, released just before his passing.

Beyond acting, he was also recognized for his voice work, serving as the official dubbing artist for Hollywood icons John Wayne and Richard Crenna. Tragically, Kobayashi succumbed to lung cancer in Yokohama on August 27, 1996, just shy of his 66th birthday, leaving behind a legacy in Japanese cinema and television.