Tao Okamoto has established herself as a top model for some time now, but this year she made her feature film debut in 20th Century Fox’s The Wolverine. Hollywood is notorious for not offering enough opportunities for Asian actors, so The Wolverine was an excellent opportunity to highlight veteran Asian actors and newcomers like Okamoto.

Tao Okamoto on the set of the wolverine
The Wolverine received praise from many critics, and lots of people were impressed with Okamoto’s performance. But believe it or not, Okamoto almost turned down the part! Thankfully her agent urged her to take the role! Okamoto is a huge fan of Hugh Jackman, so when her agent told her she would be playing his love interest she decided to go to the audition.
After she made the cut, she met with James Mangold, the producer of the film. Okamoto said that after talking with James and got to understand the part better, she realized that the project was perfect and what she’d been looking for!

Tao Okamoto is a japanese top model
The Wolverine was only released this last summer, so Okamoto hasn’t signed on to any new movies yet. But she is heavily involved in humanitarian work and expanding her fashion career, so you’re sure to hear about her projects in the news whether or not she pursues acting.
Tao Okamoto interview