Kikuchi Yuriko, better known by her stage name Rinko, was born in the picturesque town of Hadano, situated just south of Tokyo, a place renowned for its lush green tea plantations and public baths. She was the youngest of three siblings and began her journey in the entertainment industry by being scouted on the streets of her hometown, eventually transitioning from modeling to acting under her birth name.
Rinko's breakthrough role came in the critically acclaimed cult film "The Taste of Tea", which showcased her versatility as an actress. However, it was her poignant portrayal of a deaf-mute in "Babel" that catapulted her to international recognition, earning her a historic Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first Japanese actress to receive the honor in 50 years since Miyoshi Umeki.
Prior to her international fame, Rinko had appeared in various Japanese commercials, including campaigns for esteemed fashion brands such as Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent, as well as Japanese soap operas. Her rising popularity transcended borders, and she relocated to New York City, where she began taking English lessons and expanded her acting repertoire.
Rinko's subsequent roles in the acclaimed film adaptation of "Norwegian Wood" and in American films like "47 Ronin" and "Pacific Rim" further solidified her status as a talented and versatile actress. Her continued success in American entertainment was marked by her castings in "Kumiko" and "Westworld".
In her personal life, Rinko tied the knot with Japanese actor Sometani Shota in 2014 and welcomed a son in October 2016. An accomplished rider of both horses and motorcycles, Rinko grew up with a deep appreciation for the samurai films that fueled her imagination and shaped her perspective.
Throughout her remarkable journey, Rinko has consistently demonstrated her dedication to her craft, her passion for storytelling, and her ability to effortlessly navigate the complexities of cultural boundaries, cementing her status as a talented and trailblazing actress in the world of entertainment.
