Philip Ahn

Biography

Philip Ahn, originally named Pil Lip Ahn (안필립), was born on March 29, 1905, and passed away on February 28, 1978. He made his mark as a pioneering Korean American actor, being the first of his heritage to earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Ahn's film career commenced in 1935 with the movie A Scream in the Night. He appeared in the Bing Crosby musical Anything Goes, despite initial rejection from director Lewis Milestone due to his proficient English. His breakthrough came in 1936 with credited roles in The General Died at Dawn and Stowaway, alongside Shirley Temple. Ahn also shared the screen with Anna May Wong in both Daughter of Shanghai and King of Chinatown, both released in 1937.

During the Second World War, Ahn frequently portrayed Japanese antagonists in several films, often facing mistaken identity that led to death threats against him. To serve his country, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and entertained troops in the Special Services, though he was later discharged due to an ankle injury, allowing him to return to acting.

Ahn's filmography includes roles in classics such as Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing, Around the World in Eighty Days, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Paradise, Hawaiian Style, featuring Elvis Presley. He also played Korean roles in Korean War films like Battle Circus and Battle Hymn. His television career began in 1952 on the Schlitz Playhouse, leading to appearances in numerous popular series, including Kung Fu, where he was renowned for his portrayal of "Master Kan." Ahn, a devout Presbyterian, found that the Taoist teachings of his character resonated with his personal beliefs.