Hiroshi Tachi, the Epitome of Dandyism in Showbiz, Speaks on Career and Life Philosophy

I’ve never once thought I was perfect

“Even at my age, people still say, ‘You’re wonderful,’ but men are fragile—pathetically weak, even. That’s why we feel the urge to keep moving forward. I’m the same.”

So begins actor Hiroshi Tachi (75), long beloved as the symbol of dandyism, with a statement so straightforward it’s almost disarming.

“But it’s because we’re weak that we desperately try to become stronger. That desperation ends up looking like strength. In the end, weakness is what drives a man toward strength—that’s what I think men are.”

In the 1970s, he donned a leather jacket and raced through the streets as part of the biker team “COOLS,” which he formed with friends. He later joined the Toei Actor Center and debuted in film with the 1976 release Violence Classroom.

From the unflappable detective in the Seibu Keisatsu series starting in 1979, to the dandy Takayama in the Abunai Dekaseries beginning in 1986, Tachi has long stood before audiences as the embodiment of the strong and cool man.

Yet he offers unexpected words:

“As an actor and as a man, I’ve never once thought I was perfect. I always feel like, ‘I’ve still got a long way to go.’ That’s why I’m able to take on the next challenge.”

By accepting his own weaknesses and imperfections—and even turning them into strengths—he built, step by step, what has now become a 50-year career.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of his debut. When asked, “What would you say to your younger self at the time of your debut?” he gave a mischievous smile.

“I’d probably say, ‘Don’t become an actor’ (laughs). It wasn’t that I had any confidence as an actor—I was simply lucky. I actually went to university to study architecture, because I liked creating things.”

“Acting is also a kind of craftsmanship. I’m not only interested in performing a role, but also in how the entire work comes together. So whether it’s architecture or film, the foundation is the same.”

He continues:

“If I hadn’t become an actor? Since I went to study architecture, I think I would have become an architect.”

The great actor who represents the pinnacle of dandyism will continue to live on the screen for years to come.

In the November 14 issue of FRIDAY (Nov. 28 & Dec. 5 combined issue) and the paid edition FRIDAY GOLD, he speaks candidly about his approach to roles and his outlook for the future.

For more details and multiple photos, click here ↓

From the November 28/December 5, 2025 issue of “FRIDAY”