Japanese actor Akira Takarada, best known for his role in the original Godzilla movie, has died at the age of 87.

Toho Studios released a statement on Twitter confirming the tragic news.

They wrote: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Akira Takarada. May his memory continue to inspire the lives of many Godzilla fans.”

He played the role of a sailor called Hideto Ogata in the company’s 1954 production of the first Godzilla film.

The established actor went on to star in an impressive slew of movies throughout his career before he explored the world of voiceover acting.

Akira also appeared in the 1956 American version of the blockbuster movie titled Godzilla, King of the Monsters, which starred Raymond Burr.

The actor was a regular part of many other editions of the epic movie franchise, including 1964’s Mother vs Godzilla.

He went on to return for the updated version of the film in 1992 and went on to make his final appearance in the series in 2004 when he featured in Godzilla: Final Wars.

Currently, no cause of death has been announced.