Rocky Aoki was an American actor who is best known for Joshi daisei: Nikutai hoshû ryokô, Strawberry Road, and The American Sportsman. He was also a Japanese-American wrestler and restaurateur.
Personal and Family Life
Rocky Aoki was born Hiroaki Aoki on October 9, 1938, in Tokyo, Japan. He was married three times to Chizuru Kobayashi, Pamela Hilberger, and Keiko Ono. Aoki had a total of six children, including famous figures in the entertainment industry, Steve Aoki and Devon Aoki. He graduated from Keio Chutobu Middle School in 1954 and Keio High School in 1957 before pursuing further education at Keio University, Springfield College, and LIU Post.
Death and Legacy
Rocky Aoki passed away on July 10, 2008, in New York City due to pneumonia. His legacy continues through his children, especially his son Steve Aoki, who is a successful DJ and music producer. Aoki is remembered not just for his contributions to acting but also for his influence in the wrestling and restaurant industries, particularly with the chain of Benihana restaurants.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1991 | Joshi daisei: Nikutai hoshû ryokô | Actor |
| 1991 | Strawberry Road | Actor |
| 1965 | The American Sportsman | Actor |
| 1973 | Hell Up in Harlem | Asian Mobster with Purple Rolls Royce (uncredited) |