With an unforgettable screen presence and a life full of scandals and triumphs, Tura Satana is a figure that remains etched in the history of cinema. Born in 1938, she came from a mixed-race family and faced discrimination and violence from an early age. Despite the odds, she became a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, showcasing a blend of sensuality, intelligence, and strength that challenged the gender and race norms of her time.
Most famous for her role in the cult classic “Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” (1965), Satana defied the expectations of what a conventional leading lady should be. She played Varla, a tough-as-nails biker gang leader who takes on male rivals and manipulates her female cohorts with ease. With her sharp wit, piercing gaze, and impressive martial arts skills, Satana created an iconic character that inspired generations of women to embrace their power and sexuality.
But Satana’s impact extended beyond the realm of film. She was also a musician, a burlesque performer, and a feminist activist who fought for the rights of women of color. Her personal life was no less colorful, with marriages, affairs, and legal disputes adding to her legend. Despite facing health challenges and setbacks later in life, Satana remained a beloved cult figure until her passing in 2011.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Tura Satana’s life and career, from her early years to her legacy today. From her height, figure, and net worth to her contributions to feminism and pop culture, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this remarkable woman.
Tura Satana Biography
Tura Satana was a famous American actress, burlesque dancer, and cult icon, widely known for her roles in the movies such as "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!", "The Astro-Zombies", and "Irma la Douce". She was born on July 10, 1938, in Japan and passed away on February 4, 2011, in Nevada.
Tura Satana's real name was Tura Luna Pascual Yamaguchi, and she belonged to Japanese-Filipino-American descent. Her life was full of struggles as she survived sexual assaults and was even shot, but she still managed to become one of the most popular actresses of her time.
Tura Satana started her career as a burlesque dancer and worked for famous striptease dance troupes such as The Harold Minsky Show. She later transitioned to acting and made her debut in the 1963 movie "Who's Been Sleeping in My Bed?". She gained widespread acclaim for her role as Varla in the 1965 movie "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!", directed by Russ Meyer.
Despite her limited movie appearances, Tura Satana left a lasting impression on the Hollywood industry with her unique acting skills, charismatic personality, and unforgettable performances. Her net worth at the time of her death was estimated to be around $1 million.
Early Life and Career
Tura Satana was born on July 10, 1938, in Hokkaido, Japan. Her birth name was Tura Luna Pascual Yamaguchi. She was of Japanese, Filipino, and Cheyenne Indian heritage.
When Tura was a child, her family moved to the United States and settled in Chicago. She faced many challenges growing up, including racial discrimination and sexual assault.
In the 1950s, Tura became a burlesque dancer and performed under the stage name Miss Japan Beautiful. She was known for her exotic, sensual performances and quickly gained a following.
Tura's breakthrough role came in 1965 when she starred as Varla in the cult classic film, "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!". She became an icon of the grindhouse movie scene and her performance was praised for its fierce and unapologetic portrayal of a powerful, ass-kicking woman.
Throughout her career, Tura appeared in over a dozen films and TV shows and continued to perform as a burlesque dancer well into her 60s. She passed away on February 4, 2011, in Reno, Nevada, leaving behind a legacy as an actress, dancer, and feminist icon.
Becoming Tura Satana
Tura Satana, born Tura Luna Pascual Yamaguchi, was born in the United States in 1938 to a Japanese father and a Cherokee-Scots-Irish mother. Growing up, Tura faced discrimination due to her mixed heritage, which led her to become a fierce and independent woman.
At the age of nine, Tura was gang-raped by a group of men. This traumatic experience shaped her outlook on life and fueled her desire for revenge. Tura learned karate and became an exotic dancer, using her skills and beauty to take control of her life and seek justice for herself and other women.
Tura's breakout role came in 1965, when she was cast as Varla, the leader of a gang of women, in the cult classic film "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!" Tura's bold and empowered portrayal of Varla made her an icon of the feminist movement and inspired women for generations to come.
Throughout her career, Tura continued to break barriers and challenge stereotypes, paving the way for future generations of women in the entertainment industry. Her legacy as a trailblazer and feminist icon continues to inspire and empower women today.
Tura Satana Age
Tura Satana, born on July 10, 1938, was an American actress, performer, and author who passed away on February 4, 2011. She was 72 years old at the time of her death.
Despite being born several decades ago, Satana's impact on the entertainment industry is still felt today. Her iconic performance in the cult classic film "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!" has inspired countless filmmakers, actors, and musicians.
Over the course of her career, Satana embodied strength, beauty, and resilience. She was a trailblazer for Asian-American performers and a feminist icon, challenging the limitations placed upon women in Hollywood at the time.
While Satana's life was not without its difficulties, she emerged as a true survivor and inspiration to many. Her legacy continues to live on through her work and the countless lives she touched throughout her lifetime.
Tura Satana: Birthdate and Childhood
Tura Satana was born on July 10, 1938, in Hokkaido, Japan. Her birth name was Tura Luna Pascual Yamaguchi. She was of Japanese and Filipino descent.
When Tura was a child, her family moved to the United States, settling in Chicago. Her father worked as a silent film projectionist and her mother was a circus performer. Tura's childhood was difficult as she faced discrimination due to her mixed ethnic background.
As a teenager, Tura ran away from home and ended up working as a dancer in nightclubs. She also began to train in martial arts, which would later become a significant part of her career in Hollywood.
Age at the Height of Her Fame
Tura Satana, born on July 10, 1938, rose to fame in the early 1960s through her controversial and groundbreaking roles in cult films such as "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!" and "The Astro-Zombies." At the time, Satana was in her early twenties and quickly became a renowned sex symbol due to her fierce and seductive on-screen presence.
Throughout her career, Satana continued to push boundaries and challenge societal norms, paving the way for future female icons in the entertainment industry. Despite her untimely death in 2011, Satana's legacy remains strong and continues to inspire fans to this day.
At the height of her fame, Satana was known for her unique persona and striking figure. Her hourglass shape and exotic features only added to her allure, cementing her status as a true icon of the 1960s cult film scene.
Tura Satana Height
Tura Satana, born on July 10, 1938, in Japan, was a talented actress and exotic dancer. She gained fame for her iconic role as Varla in Russ Meyer's film, "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!"
Standing at 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall, Tura Satana was considered tall for a woman in the mid-20th century. Her height, combined with her strong and athletic physique, allowed her to effortlessly portray a powerful and dominant character on screen.
While Tura Satana's height was certainly a defining physical attribute, it was her talent and charisma that truly set her apart in the entertainment industry. She was a trailblazer, paving the way for women of color in Hollywood and challenging societal norms with her fierce and fearless performances.
Physical Description:
Tura Satana was known for her striking beauty and unique appearance. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches tall, she had a curvaceous figure that was the envy of many women in the industry. Her hourglass shape was accentuated by her 36D bust, 24-inch waist, and 38-inch hips. Tura had a distinctive look, with her long dark hair, almond-shaped eyes, and high cheekbones.
Her style was often described as glamorous and sexy, with a touch of danger and edge. She was known for her signature look, which included winged eyeliner, red lips, and dark clothing. Tura also had many tattoos, including a large design on her back, which added to her rockstar persona.
Despite her tough exterior, Tura had a gentle and kind personality. She often used her appearance to empower and inspire other women, promoting body positivity and self-love.
Comparison to Other Actresses
Tura Satana's unique persona and acting style set her apart from other actresses of her time. While she didn't have the mainstream success of some of her contemporaries, such as Marilyn Monroe or Audrey Hepburn, Satana was a trailblazer in her own right.
Compared to other actresses in the exploitation and grindhouse film genres, Satana stood out for her raw, physical presence on screen. Her commanding performances in films like Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill! were a departure from the more passive female characters often seen in these types of movies.
Despite not receiving the same level of commercial success as some of her peers, Satana's influence can still be felt in modern cinema. Her portrayal of strong, independent women helped pave the way for future female action stars, such as Uma Thurman in the Kill Bill series.
While Satana may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of Hollywood's most iconic actresses, her impact on the film industry is undeniable. Her legacy as a fierce, independent woman continues to inspire generations of moviegoers and performers alike.
Tura Satana Figure
Tura Satana was known for her striking and unique figure. Her measurements were 38-23-37 and she stood at 5'6" tall. Her curvaceous physique was accentuated by her signature bullet bra and curve-hugging outfits.
However, Tura Satana's figure was not just for show. She was trained in martial arts and used her strength and agility to perform her own stunts in films. She was a pioneer for strong and empowered female characters in cinema.
Despite the focus on her figure, Tura Satana also had a captivating presence on screen. Her piercing gaze and commanding voice made her a standout performer. Her figure was just one aspect of her overall magnetic persona.
Tura Satana's figure and talent helped her carve out a successful career in film and entertainment. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of strong and empowered women.
Body Measurements
Tura Satana was known for her striking beauty and unique physique. Her hourglass figure was the envy of many women and the desire of many men. She was 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighed around 120 pounds. Her bust, waist, and hips measurements were 38-24-36 inches.
However, Tura Satana's beauty was not only skin deep. She had a fierce and confident personality that radiated through her performances on and off screen. Her body movements were like a dance, and her facial expressions conveyed a range of emotions that captivated her audience.
Tura Satana's body measurements were not the only reason for her success, but they certainly added to her mystique as an exotic and powerful woman. Her confidence and undeniable talent as an actress and dancer continue to inspire and influence artists and fans alike.
Iconic Style and Fashion
Tura Satana was not only known for her acting, but also for her iconic style and fashion that became an inspiration for many. Her unique and daring fashion choices broke the stereotypes and established her as a symbol of empowerment and rebellion.
The most notable aspect of Tura Satana's style was her figure-hugging dresses that accentuated her curves and made her stand out in a sea of conservative dressing. She favored bold colors such as red, black, and leopard prints, that made a statement. Her signature leopard skin costume in the movie "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!" became iconic and cemented her status as a style icon.
Tura Satana also loved accessories such as big earrings, chunky bracelets, and statement necklaces. She was not afraid of experimenting with different styles and mixing and matching to create her individual look.
Tura Satana's fashion sense was ahead of its time and is still revered and recreated in modern times. Her style reflects her fierce personality and unapologetic attitude, making her an inspiration to many who aspire to break free from the societal norms and express themselves boldly.
Tura Satana Net Worth
Tura Satana, the legendary actress, model, and exotic dancer, was a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. Known for her roles in cult films like "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!" and "The Astro-Zombies," Satana was considered one of the sex symbols of the 1960s.
While her acting career was relatively short-lived, she continued to make appearances in films and on television throughout the 1970s and 80s. In addition to her work in entertainment, she also worked as a nurse and a landscaper.
According to sources, Tura Satana's net worth was estimated to be around $1 million at the time of her death in 2011. While she may not have amassed the same kind of wealth as some of her contemporaries, her talent and impact on popular culture cannot be denied.
Despite facing many challenges throughout her life, including being a survivor of sexual assault, Tura Satana remained a prominent figure in the industry until her passing. Her legacy lives on as a trailblazer for women in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Earnings from Acting and Other Ventures
Tura Satana was not only an accomplished actress but also a savvy businesswoman who knew how to monetize her talents. Besides her work in films and television shows, she also made money through various ventures and investments. One of her most profitable ventures was her clothing line, which catered to women who wanted to dress like the iconic star. Her line of lingerie, dresses, and shoes was a hit among her fans, and it helped her establish a reputation as a fashion icon. In addition to her clothing line, Tura also made money through endorsement deals and sponsorships. She was a spokesperson for various brands and products, including beauty products and automotive accessories. Overall, Tura Satana's net worth was estimated to be around $10 million at the time of her death, making her one of the richest actresses of her time. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of women who admire her beauty, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit.Legacy and Cultural Impact
Tura Satana's influence on popular culture cannot be overstated, as she has inspired generations of performers and filmmakers alike. Her groundbreaking portrayal of Varla in "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!" has become iconic in the world of cinema and has been referenced in countless films and TV shows.
Her fearless approach to portraying strong, independent women was years ahead of its time and paved the way for future female action heroes. Satana was a trailblazer in an industry dominated by men, and her legacy continues to inspire women in all areas of entertainment.
In addition to her impact on the film industry, Satana's fashion sense and style have also had a lasting influence. Her signature look of tight black clothing, heavy makeup, and sharp stilettos has been emulated by countless performers and fashion enthusiasts.
Despite her untimely death in 2011, Tura Satana's influence on popular culture remains strong. Her performances continue to resonate with audiences, and her legacy as a fierce and trailblazing performer will always be remembered.
FAQ
Who was Tura Satana?
Tura Satana was an American actress, burlesque performer, and cult icon. She was best known for her role as "Varla" in the 1965 film "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!"
What was Tura Satana's height and figure?
According to various sources, Tura Satana was between 5'3" and 5'7" tall, and had measurements of 38-24-36. She was known for her hourglass figure and exotic looks.
How old was Tura Satana when she died?
Tura Satana died on February 4, 2011, at the age of 72.
What was Tura Satana's net worth?
As of 2021, it is unknown what Tura Satana's net worth was at the time of her death, as she lived a relatively private life and did not disclose her financial information publicly.
What other movies did Tura Satana appear in?
Tura Satana appeared in several other films throughout her career, including "The Astro-Zombies" (1968), "The Doll Squad" (1973), and "Mark of the Astro-Zombies" (2002). She also appeared in a number of television series, such as "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." and "Burke's Law."
