When Did Karate Kid's Mr Miyagi Actor Pat Morita Die? | The Sun

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MR Miyagi will forever be known for teaching Daniel ‘son’ to “wax on, and wax off” in 80s movie Karate Kid.

Since spin-off show Cobra Kai was launched on Netflix, fans have been wondering when actor Pat Morita passed away.

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Who was Pat Morita?

Pat was born Noriyuki Morita on June 28, 1932 and was an American actor, voice actor, and comedian.

He shot to fame in the 70s when he played Arnold on Happy Days (1975–1983).

However, his best known role is of course playing Mr Miyagi in the Karate Kid film series.

The role saw him nominated for an Oscar in 1985.

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What other films and TV shows did Pat Morita star in?

Although he is known for the Karate Kid trilogy, Pat did also star in other big movies and TV shows.

His other big role was being the voice of the Emperor of China in Disney movies Mulan and Mulan II.

Pat also appeared in 90s TV shows like Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Harry and the Hendersons, Married With Children and Boy Meets World.

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When did the Pat Morita die?

Pat sadly died of heart failure on November 24, 2005 at his home in Las Vegas at the age of 73.

He was survived by Evelyn, his wife for 11 years, and three daughters from his previous marriage.

Pat was cremated at Palm Green Valley Mortuary and Cemetery in Nevada.

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What has Karate Kid star Ralph Macchio said about Pat Morita?

Cobra Kai and Karate Kid’s leading man star Ralph Macchio has said it was “tough” continuing the story of Daniel LaRusso without Pat, who was a mentor to him both off the set and on in the role of Mr. Miyagi.

Ralph told The Guardian: “That’s been tough. There’s a montage scene in series two in which I’m teaching a younger kid, just as Miyagi taught LaRusso, and that brought a real rush of emotion for me.

“Every time we shoot I hearken back to those early days of rehearsal with Pat.”