
Utaemon Ichikawa was a Japanese film actor famous for starring roles in Jidaigeki from the 1920s to the 1960s. Trained in kabuki from childhood, he made his film debut in 1925 at Makino Film Productions under Shōzō Makino. Quickly gaining popularity, he followed the example of Makino stars such as Tsumasaburō Bandō in starting his own independent production company, Utaemon Ichikawa Productions, in 1927. It was there he first began the "Idle Vassal" (Hatamoto taikutsu otoko) series, which would become his signature role. When his company folded in 1936 as sound film came to the fore, he moved to Shinkō Kinema and then Daiei Studios before helping form the Toei Company after World War II. He served on the board of directors along with fellow samurai star Chiezō Kataoka. Utaemon appeared in over 300 films during his career. His son, Kin'ya Kitaōji, is also a famous actor in film and television.

The Diary of Chuji's Travels
TV • 1992

G-men of Japan 2: Bloody Duel at Shipwreck Cape
MOVIE • 1950

Sanada Yukimura
TV • 1989

Tokugawa Chronicles: Ambition of the 3 Branches
TV • 1986

The 47 Ronin
MOVIE • 1941

The Loyal 47 Ronin
MOVIE • 1932

Road of Chivalry
MOVIE • 1960

Chûshingura - Zempen: Akahokyô no maki
MOVIE • 1932

A Spectacular Showdown
MOVIE • 1959

Knightly Advice
MOVIE • 1962

Seven from Edo
MOVIE • 1958

Kisaragi Sword
MOVIE • 1962

Lord Mito
MOVIE • 1957

Bored Hatamoto: Idle Vassal Tribute
MOVIE • 1958

The Acrobats of Death
MOVIE • 1959

Bored Hatamoto: The Imposter
MOVIE • 1952

The Mansion of Intrigue
MOVIE • 1957

Lord Mito: All Star Version
MOVIE • 1960