Miko Mayama, a remarkable Kyoto-born actress, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, her remarkable career spanning several decades. Born in 1945, she commenced her professional journey in the mid-1960s, frequently portraying elegant Japanese or Chinese characters in numerous popular television shows, including the critically acclaimed series I Spy, F Troop, Ironside, Hawaii Five-O, and Mannix.
Notable amongst her extensive repertoire of performances is the iconic portrayal of Yeoman Tamura, a pivotal character in the esteemed Star Trek episode "A Taste of Armageddon". In this captivating installment, she skillfully brought to life the role of a member of the esteemed Enterprise landing party, tasked with navigating the complexities of Eminiar VII, a planet shrouded in mystery and intrigue. This cult classic, a testament to her enduring talent, has continued to captivate audiences to this very day, its nostalgic charm and nostalgic appeal transcending the boundaries of time.
In the year 1968, a pivotal moment in Miko's life unfolded as she embarked on a journey to Japan, where she had the extraordinary opportunity to collaborate with a renowned Kabuki theatre troupe. It was during this time that her remarkable talent caught the attention of none other than the illustrious Burt Reynolds, who was en route to the Philippines to star in the film Impasse. So taken was Reynolds with Miko's exceptional abilities that he extended an offer to her to assume the role of Mariko, his on-screen mistress, in the movie. As a result of their collaboration, a profound connection blossomed between the two, transcending the boundaries of mere colleagues. This deepening bond led to a significant shift in their personal lives, as they chose to relocate to the United States together, where they resided as a couple from 1968 until 1971.
Miko's subsequent notable role was that of Fumiko, the enigmatic and captivating mistress of the affluent plantation owner Whipple Hoxworth, played by the renowned Charlton Heston, in the sweeping and ambitious epic drama, The Hawaiians, which was skillfully adapted from the esteemed novel by James A. Michener.
The life of Miko, a woman whose personal trajectory underwent a significant shift in 1971, a year marked by a dramatic turn of events. It was during this period that Burt Reynolds, a renowned actor, embarked on a romantic relationship with the iconic singer and actress Dinah Shore. The relationship, however, was not destined to last, and its eventual demise led to a settlement that would have a lasting impact on Miko's life.
As part of the agreement, Miko received a beach apartment, a luxurious asset that would provide her with a comfortable living space. Additionally, she was awarded Burt Reynolds' prized possession, a Cadillac, a symbol of his success and status. Furthermore, the settlement ensured that Miko would receive a substantial weekly allowance of $500, a financial security that would provide her with the means to support herself.
After this significant chapter in her life, Miko went on to marry Martin Erlichman, the long-standing manager of the legendary singer and actress Barbra Streisand. This union marked a new beginning for Miko, as she embarked on a new journey with a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Miko's most notable performance towards the culmination of her acting career was a season seven episode of the renowned television series M*A*S*H, where she portrayed Sun Pak, the daughter of a gravely ill Korean ex-cavalry officer who, due to circumstances, was relegated to the humble occupation of laundry duties for the esteemed 4077th medical unit.
