Patti Yasutake dead: Pioneering Asian American actress best known for 'Beef' and 'Star Trek' dies at 70

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Patti Yasutake, known for her memorable role as Nurse Alyssa Ogawa on 'Star Trek: The Next Generation,' and Fumi Nakai on 'Beef,' has died at the age of 70.

Her death was confirmed by her manager, Kyle Fritz, who shared that she died surrounded by her family after a long battle with cancer.

“Patti was not only a client but a ‘chosen family member,’” Fritz shared. “She was the very first actress I ever signed and a friendship of over 30 years ensued. It was an honor to know her, work with her and love her,” as reported by PEOPLE.

Beloved 'Star Trek' and 'Beef' star Patti Yasutake dies at 70

Yasutake was born and raised in Los Angeles and graduated from UCLA with honors in theater.

She began her career at East West Players, a prominent Asian American theater company in Los Angeles co-founded by iconic actors Mako Iwamatsu and James Hong, and went on to build a distinguished career in both theater and television.

Reflecting on her early career in an interview with Netflix's Tudum last year, she noted, “There were really no opportunities to have a career as an Asian American actress. I didn’t do martial arts, I didn’t speak a second language. Especially back then, that’s all they saw you as.” 

She launched her film career with a role in Ron Howard's 1986 comedy 'Gung Ho', portraying the wife of Gedde Watanabe's Japanese plant manager navigating cultural clashes at a Pennsylvania auto factory.

Yasutake later returned to this role for the brief ABC sitcom continuation and went on to make numerous guest appearances on shows such as 'Take Five', 'Mr Belvedere', 'Murphy Brown', and 'Picket Fences.'

Yasutake is perhaps best known for her role as Nurse Alyssa Ogawa in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation', a character she revisited in 'Star Trek: Generations (1994)' and 'Star Trek: First Contact (1996)'.

Her film career includes roles in 'Drop Dead Gorgeous' and 'The Wash', the latter earning her a Best Supporting Female nomination at the Film Independent Spirit Awards in 1989. On television, she has appeared in 'Grey's Anatomy,' 'Cold Case', 'Bones', 'The Young and the Restless', 'NCIS: Los Angeles', 'The Closer', and 'Pretty Little Liars.'

Her most recent role was on Lee Sung Jin's Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning Netflix’s hit show 'Beef,' where she played Fumi, George’s artistic and eccentric mother.

She described her reaction to the script in an interview with Tudum, saying, “It was like the clouds parted and the sun came through,” she told Tudum of her first read of the script. “I was just elated, this many decades into my career, that a role like this would come along."

Yasutake is survived by her siblings Linda Hayashi and Steven Yasutake, as well as a large extended family and a network of friends and colleagues. Her death is a significant loss to the acting community and her many fans.

Nurse Alyssa Ogawa played by late Patti Yasutake inspired Asian American Women

Nurse Alyssa Ogawa, portrayed by the late Patti Yasutake, made her debut in the iconic 'Star Trek: The Next Generation' episode 'Future Imperfect.' Initially introduced in a holo-simulation meant to deceive Commander William Riker, Ogawa’s character quickly became a vital member of the USS Enterprise's medical team.

Over her 16 appearances on 'The Next Generation,' Nurse Ogawa showcased competence, dedication, and resilience, earning several promotions and commendations. She ascended from ensign to lieutenant junior grade and ultimately achieved the rank of full lieutenant aboard the Enterprise-E, as seen in 'Star Trek: First Contact.' 

Building on the groundbreaking roles of Nyota Uhura and Hikaru Sulu in the original series, Alyssa Ogawa represented a significant step forward for Asian American representation in mainstream media. Her character illustrated that individuals of all backgrounds could contribute to the success of Starfleet, promoting a message of inclusivity and equality.

Ogawa’s presence in the series was more than just symbolic, it was aspirational. She exemplified the idea that Asian American women could occupy positions of importance and influence in future societies. This representation was crucial during a time when Asian American characters were often marginalized or stereotyped in media. Ogawa’s character broke these barriers, offering a more nuanced and positive portrayal.

Nurse Ogawa's character paved the way for future generations of Asian American women by providing a strong, relatable role model.

Inspiring many, Yasutake’s portrayal of Ogawa encouraged young Asian American women to aspire to roles in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, as well as in leadership positions across various industries. The character's impact extended beyond the screen, contributing to a broader cultural shift towards acceptance and celebration of diversity.

Internet pays tribute to Patti Yasutake after her death at 70

Fans and colleagues alike took to the Internet to pay their respects to Patti Yasutake, the beloved actor known for her roles in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation' and the Netflix hit 'Beef.' Yasutake, who died at the age of 70 after a long battle with cancer, left a lasting impression on the hearts of many.

One user fondly remembered, "She was one of my favorites," while another expressed heartfelt sympathy, "May her memory be a blessing to her friends and family."

 

The outpouring of condolences continued with a user writing, "Condolences to her family and friends."

Fans of 'Star Trek' specifically noted her integral role in the franchise. "She was such a wonderful part of the show and the Star Trek family. Condolences to her family and friends," shared one fan.

Another highlighted her warm presence, saying, "She had a warm and beautiful smile. Deepest sympathies to the family."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.