#8: Akiko Wakabayashi

In the 1950s and 1960s, Akiko Wakabayashi was a lesser-known Japanese actress, primarily working in Japanese cinema. Her big break came in 1962 with the hit King Kong vs. Godzilla, where she gained recognition for her performance. However, her role as Aki in the James Bond film You Only Live Twice (1967) brought her international fame.

As the first non-European Bond girl, Wakabayashi’s portrayal of the resourceful and charming Aki left a lasting impression on the franchise. Surprisingly, despite this breakthrough, she retired from acting shortly after, leaving her iconic role as her lasting legacy.