Osman Yusef

Osman Yusuf (オスマン・ユセフ Osuman Yusefu, May 23, 1920 - August 29, 1982), also credited under a variety of other names, was a Turkish actor who appeared frequently in Japanese films and television.

Turkish born actor living in Japan. Yusef was somewhat fluent in Japanese, which made him a hot commodity for films that required actors of Western appearance that could convincingly interact with Japanese co-stars. Yusef also served as a translator between actors of different nationalities, along with fellow actor Heihachiro “Henry” Okawa, who also spoke English. Yusef’s hooded eyes and broad physique led to his casting in intrepid or officials roles, such as astronauts and submarine officers. He also had a notable appearance as one of Jerry Ito’s henchmen in Mothra (1961). He, along with fellow English-speaking actor Harold Conway, appeared in scenes filmed for Mothra vs. Godzilla (1964) that were only shown outside of Japan.