We were lucky to catch up with Akira Lee Watanabe recently and have shared our conversation below.
Akira, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.
I believe my parents defyed gender norms by being themselves; My mother was successful in her buisness and was the main breadwinner of our family. She was ambitious and outspoken, which was ahead of her time in Japan. My father was supportive of her and her talents, and he often took on the role of caring for me. They worked together as a team and that really impacted me to defy societal expectations and the importance of finding the right people in your life. They also valued the arts and were really open about letting me immerse myself in it. As a child, I have fond memories of watching old Hollywood films with my mom, and going to live music performances with my dad – like Diana King and Al Jearreau. Looking back, I am grateful for those experiences as they really opened my mind and ignited my artistic side from a young age.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
I am Akira Lee Watanabe, a Japanese/Korean actor and voice-over artist born in Japan and educated in the U.K. I have always been drawn to the power of performance and the ability of art to bridge cultures and connections.
As a performer, I have had the privilege of collaborating with major productions such as the National Theatre UK, BBC Radio 3, and Pinewood Studios, bringing a wide array of characters to life on stage, screen, and in video games. I have lent my voice to numerous characters in the triple-A video game Tom Clancy’s: The Division 2, portrayed Yukiko Inamura in the BBC Radio 3 production of the Thousand Cranes, and narrated children’s audiobooks, including Disney’s ‘Mulan’ with Yoto Player. Additionally, I am involved in multiple upcoming projects as a casting and production advisor.
Whether I am voicing a character in a video game or bringing a complex theatrical role to life, my goal is always to create art that is authentic and true to the human experience. Through my work, I strive to challenge stereotypes and to empower underrepresented voices, celebrating the diversity and richness of our global community. At my core, Through my art, I hope to connect with others on a deep and meaningful level, bridging cultural divides and fostering a sense of unity and empathy. Whether on stage or on screen, I am committed to using my platform to create art that reflects the beauty and complexity of the world around us.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
I would say “Hamilton and Me: An Actor’s Journal” by Giles Terera and “A Life in Parts” by Bryan Cranston. These two books have taught me the mindset of being an actor, the discipline, tenacity, and outlook that is required to be in this career for the long run. It gave me a clear understanding of balancing your life as an artist and the business of acting.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
One of the most rewarding aspects of doing what I love is collaborating and working with other creatives. It’s a joy to meet them and work together towards a common goal, and I’m constantly inspired by their rich inner worlds that they express and share through their art. Witnessing their creativity firsthand and creating something together is absolutely fascinating. That is my true north.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.akiraleewatanabe.com/
- Instagram: @akiraleewatanabe
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/public-profile/settings?trk=d_flagship3_profile_self_view_public_profile