"I began in an era where four-letter words were not allowed."

"The idea of a Japanese comedian was not only a rarity, it was non-existent."

"I don't know of any other creature on earth other than man that will sit in a corner and cry because of some painful experience in the past."

"I'm awkward at these things. Just being nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Karate Kid was a real surprise and I was a little uncomfortable."

"You may have heard that back in the States there are some people who are smoking grass. I don't know how you feel, but it's sure easier than cutting the stuff."

"It's been a career filled with very low valleys and some wonderful, high peaks."

"A lot happens in 20 years."

"I've been working on my autobiography, just pecking away in longhand. The more you write, the more you remember. The more you remember, the more detail you recall. It's not all pleasant!"

"I didn't have a childhood."