Arnold Schwarzenegger has expressed a heartfelt message to his late sensei, Kiyoshi Yamazaki. The Terminator star has consistently amazed and entertained us with some of the most iconic performances in film history. Most of his endeavors, especially in the ’80s, have shaped so much of popular culture.
However, the actor admits that no one is self-made. And that statement includes Schwarzenegger. If it weren’t for the efforts and guidance of Kiyoshi Yamazaki, Conan the Barbarian may not have been as commercially successful as it turned out to be. Taking to Instagram, the Former Governor of California paid a heartwarming tribute to the late Japanese martial artist.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Was Trained By Kiyoshi Yamazaki
Released in 1982, Conan the Barbarian is an epic sword and sorcery film. The film features Schwarzenegger in the title role, portraying a character that was created by American writer Robert E. Howard. Critically, the endeavor may have drawn a polarized reception. On the commercial front, however, it succeeded in amassing $79 million at the worldwide box office against a budget of $20 million.
The film also helped establish Arnold Schwarzenegger on the Hollywood map. He gained worldwide recognition and went on to star in other memorable cinematic pursuits of the ’80s and ’90s. While the actor’s dedication to the role is appreciable, it wouldn’t have been possible without the sword-play training he received from sensei Kiyoshi Yamazaki. On Wednesday, the Japanese martial artist passed away at the age of 83.
Sensei Yamazaki was born on August 16, 1940, in Chiba Prefecture, Japan. He received his early training in martial arts under the guidance of his father, a Kendo teacher. Later in life, Yamazaki served as the overseas chief instructor and president of Japan Karate-Do Ryobu-Kai. For Conan the Barbarian, he helped tutor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sandahl Bergman, and Gerry Lopez in sword-fighting styles. This training would help them yield their weapons in a way that would look realistic.
Talking of his experience with Kiyoshi Yamazaki, Schwarzenegger penned his sentiments on Instagram.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Credits His Conan Success To Kiyoshi Yamazaki
Paying tribute to his late sensei, Arnold Schwarzenegger extended his condolences to Kiyoshi Yamazaki’s family. He additionally affirmed his gratitude and respect for the martial artist who helped furnish his sword-wielding skills. Calling him a “fantastic teacher” and a “wonderful man”, the FUBAR alum credited his Conan the Barbarian success to Yamazaki.
Following was his statement:
“I just heard the news that my sensei, Kiyoshi Yamazaki, passed away. He was a wonderful man and a fantastic teacher who made me believable as Conan the Barbarian with his sword training.”
The actor elaborated on his philosophy. Schwarzenegger believes that one is “self-made” and that the efforts and guidance of the others around us shape us into a better, more successful version of ourselves. Sensei Yamazaki was one such person in the Terminator star’s life:
“When I say no one is self-made, this is what I mean. Who knows if Conan would have been a success if Sensei Yamazki didn’t make my swordplay realistic? He played an important role in my life, he was a dear friend, and my thoughts are with his family.”
You can take a look at the Instagram post below:
View this post on Instagram
Most Hollywood endeavors are collaborative undertakings. Some of the stars we see on screen today have thrived under the mentorship and guidance of unsung heroes. The behind-the-scenes efforts that result in such magnificent moments are not visible on the big screen; only the actors’ performances are. Arnold Schwarzenegger honoring Kiyoshi Yamazaki’s legacy serves as a reminder to reflect on all the talents who contributed to some of the most memorable movies without taking center stage.
Conan the Barbarian is available for streaming on Netflix.
Source: Instagram
