Few actors in Hollywood history have embodied wisdom, humor, and heart as deeply as Pat Morita. Best known for his role as the gentle yet tough mentor Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid film series, Morita’s story is one of perseverance, resilience, and cultural impact. Beyond his film legacy, the life of Pat Morita is filled with remarkable moments of triumph over adversity — from his difficult childhood to his eventual global stardom. In this article, we’ll explore his movies, early life, family, cause of death, and lasting legacy — everything about the man behind one of cinema’s most iconic characters.
Who Is Pat Morita?
Pat Morita was born Noriyuki “Pat” Morita on June 28, 1932, in Isleton, California, USA. His parents, Tamaru and Momoe Morita, were Japanese immigrants who came to America in search of a better life. Despite humble beginnings, Morita would rise to fame as one of the first Japanese-American actors to achieve major recognition in Hollywood.
But his road to success was not easy. As a child, Pat was diagnosed with spinal tuberculosis (Pott disease) — a serious illness that left him bedridden in a full-body cast for nearly nine years. Doctors once told his parents he might never walk again. Yet, after years of rehabilitation and surgeries, Pat miraculously recovered by age 11. This early battle with illness would shape his lifelong perseverance and sense of humor.
During World War II, the Morita family faced another hardship when they were sent to Japanese internment camps, first at Gila River in Arizona and later at Tule Lake in California. These experiences deeply influenced Pat’s outlook on life, teaching him about endurance, identity, and the importance of laughter amid pain.
After the war, his family opened a restaurant in Sacramento, where Pat — still a teenager — would often entertain guests with jokes and impressions. His natural humor and charisma led him toward stand-up comedy, which became his first steppingstone to fame.
Pat Morita’s Early Career and Rise to Stardom
Before becoming a beloved actor, Morita worked various jobs — from clerical work to technical sales — but he always had a knack for storytelling and humor. In the early 1960s, he began performing as a stand-up comedian under the nickname “The Hip Nip,” blending sharp wit with cultural commentary on being Asian-American in the United States.
His big break in television came when he was cast in the popular sitcom “Happy Days” as Matsuo “Arnold” Takahashi, the lovable owner of Arnold’s Diner. This role made him a household name and opened the door to film opportunities. Morita’s comedic timing, warmth, and ability to portray dignity through humor caught the attention of Hollywood directors.
Pat Morita Movies – Filmography and Career Highlights
While Pat Morita appeared in dozens of films and TV shows throughout his long career, it was his role in The Karate Kid (1984) that defined his legacy.
1. The Karate Kid (1984)
In this classic coming-of-age martial arts drama, Pat Morita portrayed Mr. Miyagi, the wise mentor who teaches Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) not only karate but also discipline, respect, and balance. Morita’s gentle, soulful performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, making him one of the first Asian-American actors ever nominated for an Oscar.
2. The Karate Kid Part II (1986)
The sequel took Miyagi and Daniel to Okinawa, Japan — diving deeper into Mr. Miyagi’s past and cultural roots. The film expanded on his backstory and introduced emotional depth to his character, showcasing Morita’s dramatic abilities beyond the mentor stereotype.
3. The Karate Kid Part III (1989)
In the third installment, Miyagi once again guides Daniel through life’s challenges. Although not as critically acclaimed as the first two, it solidified Morita’s status as a beloved pop culture icon.
4. The Next Karate Kid (1994)
Pat Morita reprised his role alongside a young Hilary Swank, introducing a new generation to the Miyagi legacy. Even as Hollywood changed, Morita’s timeless portrayal continued to resonate.
5. Mulan (1998)
Pat Morita voiced the Emperor of China in Disney’s animated hit Mulan, adding grace and authority to one of the film’s most powerful roles. His voice acting extended his influence to younger audiences worldwide.
Other Notable Works
- Thoroughly Modern Millie (1967) – Morita’s early film debut.
- Honeymoon in Vegas (1992)
- Spy Hard (1996)
- Baywatch (TV Series cameo, 1994)
- Baywatch Nights (1995)
- Captain Planet and the Planeteers (voice role)
Morita’s filmography spans over 100 roles, ranging from comedy to drama and voice acting. His versatility made him one of the most respected Asian-American performers in Hollywood history.
Pat Morita as a Young Man
When people see Mr. Miyagi, they imagine the elderly, wise mentor — but Pat Morita’s youth was filled with resilience and humor. As a young boy recovering from illness, he developed a sharp wit and a passion for making people laugh. After years in hospitals and internment camps, his optimism became his greatest weapon against hardship.
During his teenage years, Pat began working at his family’s restaurant in Sacramento, where his outgoing nature made him a natural entertainer. Guests loved his jokes, and soon, Morita was performing in local clubs. Those years honed his comedic craft and prepared him for Hollywood.
He once said in an interview, “Laughter was my way out — it was my medicine before I even knew what medicine was.” This mindset shaped both his personal life and his acting style, helping him transform pain into art.
Pat Morita’s Father and Family Background
Pat Morita’s father, Tamaru Morita, was a hardworking immigrant who moved from Kumamoto, Japan, to California in 1915. He and his wife, Momoe, worked as migrant fruit pickers before saving enough to run a small restaurant. Tamaru’s work ethic and determination deeply influenced Pat, instilling in him the values of perseverance and humility.
Tragically, Pat’s father died in 1956 in a hit-and-run accident, which was a devastating loss for the family. Despite this, Pat continued to honor his parents’ sacrifices by pursuing success in America — something they had always dreamed of for their children.
Pat had one brother, Hideo “Harry” Morita, who was twelve years older and often acted as a father figure after Tamaru’s death.
Pat Morita’s Family and Children
Throughout his life, Pat Morita was known as a warm, family-oriented man. He was married three times and had three daughters from a previous marriage. While he kept his private life out of the spotlight, he often spoke fondly of his children in interviews, emphasizing the importance of family values and heritage.
His final marriage was to Evelyn Guerrero, an actress known for roles in Cheech and Chong’s Up in Smoke and Nice Dreams. The two were together until his passing in 2005. Evelyn remained by his side during his later years and has continued to honor his memory through interviews and appearances at tribute events.
Pat Morita’s Age, Birthday, and Personal Traits
Born June 28, 1932, Pat Morita lived a life filled with laughter and courage until his death on November 24, 2005, at the age of 73. Friends and colleagues described him as kind-hearted, disciplined, and incredibly witty. His ability to switch between serious and comedic tones made him a unique presence in Hollywood.
Morita was also known for his humility. Despite his global fame, he never let stardom change his attitude. He treated co-stars, fans, and crew members with genuine respect, often cracking jokes to lighten the mood on set. His birthday is celebrated by fans each year as a reminder of his contributions to film and representation.
Pat Morita’s Cause of Death
Pat Morita passed away on November 24, 2005, due to kidney failure at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada. His death came after a long struggle with urinary and gallbladder infections. While reports varied slightly, it was widely confirmed that kidney complications led to his passing.
Morita’s wife, Evelyn, shared that he had been battling health issues for years but remained positive and humorous until the end. His death marked the loss of one of Hollywood’s most respected actors, but his legacy continues to inspire millions.
Pat Morita’s Net Worth and Financial Legacy
At the time of his death, Pat Morita’s net worth was estimated between $2.5 million and $5 million. His wealth came primarily from acting, voice work, television appearances, and stand-up comedy. However, those who knew him often said that his true riches lay in his kindness, humor, and the cultural bridges he built through his work.
Beyond the financial aspect, Morita’s career helped pave the way for future generations of Asian-American actors in Hollywood — a priceless contribution to the entertainment industry.
Pat Morita’s Legacy in Film and Culture
Pat Morita’s influence extended far beyond The Karate Kid. He broke stereotypes, showing that Asian characters could be complex, wise, funny, and deeply human. Before Morita, Hollywood often relegated Asian actors to background or villain roles. After Mr. Miyagi, the industry began to open up — albeit slowly — to diverse portrayals of Asian identities.
His “wax on, wax off” mantra became part of pop culture history, symbolizing patience, discipline, and mentorship. For many, Mr. Miyagi wasn’t just a movie character — he was a role model for how to live a balanced, honorable life.
Pat Morita’s story reminds us that adversity can lead to greatness. From internment camps to Academy Award nominations, he embodied the American Dream while staying true to his heritage.
Conclusion
Pat Morita’s life is a cinematic story in itself — one filled with laughter, hardship, and triumph. From a bedridden child who could barely move to a global symbol of wisdom and strength, he showed the world that perseverance and humor could overcome any obstacle. Through his unforgettable performances, especially as Mr. Miyagi, Pat Morita left an indelible mark on film history and in the hearts of fans across generations.
Even today, his movies continue to inspire audiences with lessons of respect, courage, and inner peace. His legacy is proof that true greatness comes not from fame, but from the impact one leaves behind.
Article by Infory