Ichikawa died after suffering heart problems on Wednesday in
Ichikawa, or
Kabuki, which features live music and dance on a revolving stage, originated in the 17th Century Edo era and is traditionally performed only by men. So, Ichikawa played beautiful damsels, as well as witches, samurai and even animals throughout his career.
He is best known for bringing back the stunt “chunori,” which translates as “lifted into space,” portraying a joyous fox that receives from a princess a small drum made from the hide of its slaughtered parents.
Ichikawa was listed in the
Hailed as “the rebel in Kabuki” by Japanese media, Ichikawa also created new works. “Yamato Takeru,” based on Japanese mythology and centered on a
Ichikawa not only collaborated with modern writers and composers but also recruited and trained people outside the Kabuki families as actors. That had been unheard of, although such collaborations are routine now due to Ichikawa’s efforts.
After he divorced from actress
“He was an actor who devoted his life to blazing new trails, always with a heart that aspired to fly to the heavens, no matter the obstacles,” Kagawa said in a statement.
“He was truly blessed to have been loved by so many people and for giving his all to his own
Kagawa’s son Danko has now started acting in Kabuki and is on track to inherit the family roles.
“There was so much more I wanted to learn from my grandfather,” Danko said.
“I vow to keep doing my best, never forgetting the drive to soar above and the power to dream that he so treasured,” he added.
Ichikawa continued to act even after suffering a stroke in 2003, delivering his final performance in 2013. He has been honored with numerous cultural prizes, including from the Japanese and French governments.
Tragedy struck Ichikawa's family earlier this year when his brother and fellow Kabuki actor Danshiro Ichikawa and his wife died in an apparent triple-suicide attempt. Their son, Ennosuke Ichikawa, whose attempt failed, is set to face trial over the deaths.
A public memorial for Ichikawa is being planned for a later date, following family services, according to
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