Categories: Celebrity

If you don’t already know, Noriyuki “Pat” Morita, aka “Mr. Miyagi” passed away on Thanksgiving at the age of 73. Apart from the famous phrase “Wax on, wax off”, he was also famous for The Karate Kid movies. His excellent portrayal of Mr. Miyagi earned him an Oscar nomination, and the adoration of fans everywhere. This post is my tribute to that great man.

The Karate Kid movies were some of my favourite movies, because who couldn’t relate to Daniel, a new kid in a tough neighbourhood, who has to deal with bullies? Mr. Miyagi was wise, kind but tough, and had a unique sense of humour, exactly what an Okinawan karate teacher should be. His techniques were unorthodox to say the least. He taught Daniel karate by making him do chores, which, unbeknownst to Daniel, improved his karate hand movements. In time he became more than than to Daniel, he became a father figure to him, and to us. He was like the old Japanese uncle/sensei we never had. There were times that I wished I had a Mr. Miyagi to mentor me, and lead me along life’s path.

For those who saw The Karate Kid movies during our youth, seeing his face conjured up childhood memories, memories of a simpler time, before our lives were corrupted by materialism. He never quite got his props, but a least he got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1994. He is survived by his wife Evelyn, and three daughters from his previous marriage. So rest in peace Pat. You’ll always be our Mr. Miyagi.