Pat Morita

(Noriyuki Morita)
actor
Born: 8/28/1932
Birthplace: Berkeley, California

This Japanese-American actor, who lived in a Japanese internment camp during World War II, programmed computers before becoming a standup comic. After stints in nightclubs and on TV variety shows, he acted in films such asThoroughly Modern Millie(1967) andMidway(1976). He won anOscarnomination for his role as karate instructor inThe Karate Kid(1984), a part he reprised in its sequels. His TV roles include Arnold (1975–76, 1982–83) in the seriesHappy Daysand star of the detective seriesOhara(1987–88). His other films includeEven Cowgirls Get the Blues(1994) andElvis Has Left the Building(2004).

Died: Las Vegas,11/24/2005