Itsuji Itao

Itsuji Itao, born July 18, 1963 in Tondabayashi, Osaka, Japan, is a prolific Japanese comedian, actor, screenwriter, and director whose career spans over four decades. Itōa first emerged on the Japanese entertainment scene in 1985 as a member of the comedy duo 130R, quickly gaining recognition for his sharp wit and eccentric physical comedy, which later earned him a place on the popular variety show hosted by the iconic comedy trio Downtown. Over the years he has become a staple in the batsu (punishment) segments of many televised comedy specials, where his fearless willingness to endure absurd challenges has cemented his reputation as a fearless performer. In addition to his comedic roots, Itao has built an impressive filmography, appearing in more than thirty feature films ranging from unsettling horror titles such as One Missed Call: Final and Tokyo Gore Police to quirky cult classics like Big Man Japan and Love Exposure, where his characters often blend absurdity with a subtle, sometimes dark, emotional depth. His versatility is highlighted by his recurring collaborations with director Takashi Miike, as well as his involvement in mainstream franchises like Kamen Rider and Death Note: The Last Name. Beyond acting, Itao has contributed as a screenwriter, notably for Cromartie High: The Movie, and has taken the director’s chair for projects such as The King of Jail Breakers (2010) and Hibana: Spark (2017), demonstrating his multifaceted talent behind the camera. On television, he has taken on dramatic roles in series like Carnation and The Naked Director, showcasing an ability to shift seamlessly between comedy and serious drama. His enduring presence in Japanese popular culture is a testament to his adaptable skill set, relentless work ethic, and the unique blend of humor and pathos he brings to every performance, making him a beloved figure across multiple generations of viewers.