Have you ever wondered how a young boy, battling debilitating illness and facing the harsh realities of racial prejudice, could rise to become one of Hollywood's most beloved figures? The extraordinary life of Noriyuki "Pat" Morita is a testament to the power of resilience, talent, and the enduring human spirit, forever etching his name in the annals of entertainment history.
Born on June 28, 1932, in Isleton, California, to Japanese immigrant parents, Pat Morita's early years were fraught with adversity. As a child, he was diagnosed with spinal tuberculosis, a debilitating condition that confined him to a hospital bed for years. This prolonged period of isolation and physical struggle could have easily defined his life, but Morita possessed an inner strength that would ultimately propel him towards greatness. Even after his passing on November 24, 2005, at the age of 73, Morita continues to inspire millions.
| Pat Morita: Biographical and Career Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Noriyuki "Pat" Morita |
| Date of Birth | June 28, 1932 |
| Place of Birth | Isleton, California, USA |
| Date of Death | November 24, 2005 |
| Cause of Death | Kidney failure |
| Occupation | Actor, Comedian |
| Years Active | 1960s-2000s |
| Notable Role | Mr. Kesuke Miyagi in "The Karate Kid" film series |
| Awards & Recognition | Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (1984) |
| Spouse(s) | Kathleen Yamauchi (m. 1953; div. 1967) Evelyn Guerrero (m. 1994; div. 1998) |
| Children | Erin Morita, Aly Morita, Tia Morita |
| Other Notable Roles | "Happy Days," "Ohara," "Babylon 5" |
| Autobiography | Pat Morita: The Karate Kid's Action-Packed Autobiography |
| Legacy | Pioneering Asian-American actor, broke stereotypes, inspired generations |
| External Link | Pat Morita on IMDb |
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