Taizo Yokoyama was a Japanese actor and cartoonist best known for creating the character Puu-san. He made significant contributions to the comic industry in Japan from the 1950s onwards.
Personal and Family Life
Taizo Yokoyama was born on February 28, 1917, in Kochi Prefecture, Japan. He had an older brother, Ryûichi Yokoyama, who was also a well-known cartoonist, animation director, and producer, influencing Taizo’s career in the arts. Taizo left school early to pursue his passion for drawing at the Kawahata Illustration School.
Career
In the 1930s, Taizo’s career was interrupted by the Sino-Japanese War, but he returned before the conflict ended. He published his first work, “Taizô Manga,” in 1950. In 1951, Taizo introduced his most famous character, Puu-san, utilizing a unique drawing style that gained him popularity. In 1953, Puu-san appeared in a live-action film featuring cameos by Taizo and his brother, leading to a collaboration with director Kon Ichikawa.
Death and Legacy
Taizo Yokoyama passed away on June 10, 2007, in Kanagawa, Japan, due to a lung infection. His work in comics and animation left a lasting impact on the Japanese entertainment industry. He is remembered for his unique characters and contributions to satirical comic strips, influencing generations of artists.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1953 | Mr. Pu | Self | 6.4 |
| 1954 | A Billionaire | Writer | 6.6 |
| 1956 | Densuke no senden kyô | Self | N/A |