Actor Pat Morita, who was nominated for an Oscar for his role as Mr Miyagi in
The Karate Kid, has passed away.
The 73-year-old died at his home in Las Vegas on Thursday of natural causes, his wife Evelyn said.
Morita began his career as a comic and rose to fame in TV's Happy Days. His role as Ralph Macchio's mentor Mr Miyagi, however, would define his career. He appeared in the film's trilogy, including opposite Hilary Swank in 'The Next Karate Kid'.
Morita's other credits included 'Honeymoon in Vegas', 'Spy Hard', and 'Even Cowgirls get the Blues'.