Renowned actress Patti Yasutake, recognized for her performances in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and the Netflix show “Beef,” has passed away at the age of 70. Kyle Fritz, her manager and close friend, confirmed her death on August 5, 2024 in Santa Monica, California. She died after a struggle with a rare T-cell lymphoma.
Yasutake was born on September 6, 1953, in Los Angeles, California. Her acting career, spanning more than 30 years, started with a role in the police drama “T.J. Hooker” in 1985, where she acted alongside William Shatner. Yasutake’s first notable part was in the 1986 comedy “Gung Ho” directed by Ron Howard, where she played Umeki Kazihiro, a Japanese wife attempting to assimilate into American culture.
Her most memorable role was that of Nurse Alyssa Ogawa in “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Yasutake reprised this role in the movies “Star Trek Generations” (1994) and “Star Trek: First Contact” (1996). Regarding her regular appearances on the show, Yasutake stated, “It was really fun when you get the call to come back because it made you feel good that you were probably doing something they appreciated.”
Her last significant role was in the Netflix series “Beef,” where she played Fumi Nakai, the mother of George, portrayed by Joseph Lee. The series, which also starred Ali Wong and Steven Yeun, garnered numerous accolades and critical acclaim. Yasutake expressed great pleasure in being part of this project, citing both the joy of its creation and the positive response from viewers as incredibly gratifying.
Throughout her career, Yasutake was lauded for her exceptional talent, her commitment to acting, and her lively spirit. Her manager, Kyle Fritz, commented, “Patti was my first client when I began over 30 years ago. We enjoyed every day we worked together, and I will miss her spirit, talent, tenacity, but most of all, her friendship.”
Yasutake also had a successful career in theater, working with East West Players under the guidance of the company’s co-founder, Mako. She collaborated with other theater companies such as Los Angeles Theatre Center, South Coast Repertory, and Westwood Playhouse. Her performance in the 1988 film “The Wash” resulted in a nomination for Best Supporting Female at the Independent Spirit Awards.
Yasutake is survived by her siblings, Linda Hayashi and Steve Yasutake. A memorial service is scheduled for August 25, 2024, at the East West Players Theater company in Los Angeles, where she began her acting career. Her family is requesting donations to East West Players in lieu of flowers, recognizing her enduring relationship with the theater community.
