SONNY CHIBA – the legendary martial artist who starred in films like Kill Bill – has died at the age of 82.
The Japanese actor’s agent confirmed his death on Thursday, reporting the cause of death was due to Covid-19 complications.
According to Sonny’s agency, the actor had not received his vaccination for COVID-19.
He reportedly had gone to a hospital in Chiba, Japan on August 8 after his pneumonia caused by coronavirus had worsened.
Chiba was on supplemental oxygen, but he was unable to recover before his death.
Shinichi Chiba, known as Sonny Chiba, was a Japanese actor and martial artist.
He was one of the first Hollywood stars to gain notoriety for his martial arts skills.
Chiba started his career in superhero films before moving onto crime thrillers.
Chiba’s fans have mourned his passing with clips and photos from his movies.
One fan said: “The great Sonny Chiba passed away today at age 82, another victim of Covid-19. A martial arts legend with six black belts who started out in tokusatsu TV, Chiba made over 120 movies for Toei and was Japan’s most popular action star for decades. Watch one of his films today.”
American actor Lewis Tan said on Twitter: “A true action legend. Your films are eternal and your energy an inspiration. #SonnyChiba #RIP”.
New York-based writer and director Ted Geoghegan described him as “the great Sonny Chiba”.
“Watch one of his films today,” he tweeted, alongside emojis of a fist and a broken heart.
Game creator Hideo Kojima tweeted: “RIP, Sonny Chiba. The sun goes down.”
Director and writer Timo Tjahjanto also shared his upset on Twitter saying: “A life well lived. Look at that super handsome mug. RIP. Shinichi Sonny Chiba.”
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which is responsible for the Oscars, said he was a “legend” who “blended toughness with depth”.
Chiba is survived by his three children, Juri Manase, Mackenyu Arata and Gordon Maeda, who are all actors.
