Gedde Watanabe is an American actor of Japanese descent who gained prominence for his portrayal of various comedic characters in film, television, and theater. Born on June 26, 1955, in Ogden, Utah, Watanabe is best known for his role as Long Duk Dong in the 1984 teen comedy film "Sixteen Candles."
Watanabe's distinct physical appearance, along with his exaggerated comedic timing and delivery, contributed to his iconic status as a comedic actor. Despite the notoriety brought on by his breakthrough role, Watanabe has successfully navigated a diverse range of roles throughout his career, both within the comedy genre and beyond.
With an extensive filmography under his belt, including appearances in "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" (1990), "Gung Ho" (1986), and "UHF" (1989), Watanabe has showcased his versatility as an actor. In addition to his film work, Watanabe has also made appearances in popular television shows such as "M*A*S*H," "Nash Bridges," and "ER."
Off-screen, Watanabe has also demonstrated his talent in the realm of theater, with notable performances on Broadway in productions like "Pacific Overtures" and "The King and I." His contributions to both the stage and screen have cemented his status as a respected and admired performer within the entertainment industry.
