Takeshi Kitano, also known by his stage name Beat Takeshi, is a multifaceted Japanese entertainer renowned for his work as a comedian, actor, director, and television personality.

He gained international acclaim for his role in the film “Violent Cop” (1989), which he also directed, marking his transition from comedy to serious cinema.

Early Life and Education

Takeshi Kitano was born on January 18, 1947, in Adachi, Tokyo, Japan. Raised in a working-class family, his father, Kikujiro Kitano, was a house painter and occasional drinker who often disappeared for extended periods. His mother, Saki Kitano, worked tirelessly to support the family, emphasizing the importance of education for her children.

Kitano was the youngest of four children, with siblings Shigekazu, Masaru, and Yasuko. He initially pursued a degree in engineering at Meiji University but dropped out to enter the entertainment industry in 1972, adopting the stage name Beat Takeshi.

Personal Life

Takeshi Kitano was married to Mikiko Kitano from 1983 until their divorce in 2019. They have two children: Shōko Kitano and Atsushi Kitano. Shōko is a singer and actress known for her debut under the name Shōko Matsuda and her appearance in her father’s film “Hana-bi” (1997). As of now, Kitano is possibly single.

Career

Kitano’s career began in comedy, where he gained popularity as part of the duo “Two Beat.” He transitioned into acting and directing with his directorial debut in “Violent Cop” (1989).

His filmography includes notable works such as “Hana-bi” (1997), which won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, and “Zatoichi” (2003). Kitano is also known for hosting the game show “Takeshi’s Castle” (1986–1990).

Awards

1997: Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival for “Hana-bi” (Won)

2003: Silver Lion for Best Director at the Venice Film Festival for “Zatoichi” (Won)

2003: Audience Award at the Toronto International Film Festival for “Zatoichi” (Won)

2003: Best Director at the Blue Ribbon Awards for “Zatoichi” (Won)

2003: Best Director at the Japan Academy Prize for “Zatoichi” (Won)

Net Worth

Takeshi Kitano’s net worth is estimated to be between $5 million and $20 million. His wealth primarily stems from his extensive career in entertainment, including acting, directing, and television hosting.

Filmography

Film

1989: Violent Cop – Azuma

1990: Boiling Point – Uehara

1991: A Scene at the Sea – Director

1993: Sonatine – Murakawa

1995: Getting Any? – Asao

1996: Kids Return – Director

1997: Hana-bi – Nishi

1999: Kikujiro – Kikujiro

2000: Brother – Yamamoto

2003: Zatoichi – Zatoichi

2005: Takeshis’ – Beat Takeshi/Mr. Kitano

2007: Glory to the Filmmaker! – Kitano

2010: Outrage – Otomo

2012: Beyond Outrage – Otomo

2017: Outrage Coda – Otomo

2017: Ghost in the Shell – Aramaki

2023: Kubi – Director

Television

1986–1990: Takeshi’s Castle – Host

1990–present: Beat Takeshi’s TV Tackle – Host

1991–present: Takeshi’s Hidden Camera – Host

1997–present: Beat Takeshi’s Unbelievable – Host

Books

1990: A Guru Is Born

1997: Asakusa Kid

2002: Beat Takeshi’s TV Tackle

2004: Takeshi Kitano’s All-Out War

2005: Beat Takeshi’s Outrage

2007: Takeshi Kitano’s Complete Works