05/06/2024
In celebration of API Month, we honor Sessue Hayakawa, an early Asian icon in Hollywood. Born in Minamiboso, Japan, in 1886, Hayakawa initially trained at the Japanese naval academy before discovering his passion for acting at 15 in the United States.
Hayakawa’s groundbreaking role as a villain in “The Cheat” (1915), including a scene where he brands a woman, defied stereotypes and catapulted him to become one of Hollywood’s earliest s*x symbols. His charm and talent made him immensely popular, alongside icons like Charlie Chaplin and Douglas Fairbanks, establishing him as one of the era’s top-earning stars.
Throughout the years, Hayakawa grew disenchanted with Hollywood’s persistent typecasting and reliance on stereotypes. In response, he boldly founded Haworth Pictures Corporation in 1918. Within three years, the company produced 23 films, challenging prevalent stereotypes and expanding opportunities for Asian representation on screen.
In 1934, the United States implemented the Hays Code in which imposed restrictions on motion pictures, including the portrayal of in*******al love on screen. This led to Hayakawa redirected his career to Europe amidst these challenges. During this time, he unfortunately was trapped in France during WWII, where he later joined the French Resistance to aid the local Japanese community.
Upon returning to America in 1949 at 63, Hayakawa relaunched his acting career for the third time despite continuing to get type casting roles. It wasn’t until 1957, with his work in “The Bridge on the River Kwai,” that he gained recognition, earning nominations at the Golden Globe and Academy Awards for his performances.
After retiring from film in 1966, Hayakawa immersed himself in Zen Buddhism, becoming an ordained Zen master. He dedicated his later years to coaching and teaching until his passing in 1973.
Hayakawa’s legacy endures as a pioneering Asian actor who challenged Hollywood stereotypes, leaving a lasting impact on cinema’s representation. His journey from naval aspirations to Hollywood stardom, resilience during wartime challenges, and commitment to Zen philosophy reflect a life of cultural impact and artistic excellence.
