Renowned actress and Haiyuza Theater Company leader Michiko Otsuka died of heart disease at her Tokyo home on Feb. 26, the theatrical troupe said Monday. She was 82.
Otsuka, a native of Kochi Prefecture, joined the troupe in 1948, drawing the limelight for her parts in "Three Sisters" by Russian playwright Anton Chekhov and "Horoki" ("Vagabond's Diary") by Japanese author Fumiko Hayashi.
She also appeared in a slew of movies and TV dramas, including NHK period pieces, such as "Minamotono Yoshitsune," as well as the popular TBS drama series "Mito Komon."
Otsuka, who took the helm of the troupe in 2010, received many prestigious prizes for her acting throughout her career.
Kyodo