Takeshi Kitano

A Japanese actor, director, and comedian who has starred in many cult films, in particular Battle Royale.

In his native country he is famous as a comedian and talk show host, but has achieved international success with Takeshis Castle, which was given a Gag Dub as MXC in the US, as well as forays into more serious film work, such as Sonatine. Nowadays he is most famous for portraying the titular blind samurai in Zatoichi.

Also the creator of Takeshis Challenge.

As an actor, he is usually credited "Beat" Takeshi.