Most people recognize Billy Dee Williams as the charismatic actor behind Lando Calrissian in Star Wars. But behind the scenes, there’s someone just as remarkable — his wife, Teruko Nakagami. Though she has lived a life far from the spotlight, her story is rich, powerful, and filled with moments that shaped her and the men she loved.
From a childhood shaped by hardship to decades of quiet strength beside two iconic figures, Teruko Nakagami has lived a life worth telling. Let’s explore her inspiring journey — one of grace, resilience, and love.
Teruko Nakagami: Quick Profile
Full Name: Teruko Irene Nakagami
Birth Year: 1946
Age (2025): 78 years old
Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Nationality: Japanese-American
Ethnicity: Asian
Religion: Christianity
Height: 5’5″ (165 cm)
Weight: 121 lbs (55 kg)
Marital Status: Married
Current Husband: Billy Dee Williams
Ex-Husband: Wayne Shorter
Children: 2 (Miyako and Hanako)
Current Residence: Studio City, California, USA
Profession: Former model/actress (unconfirmed)
Famous For: Being the wife of Billy Dee Williams
Early Life and Background
Teruko Nakagami was born in 1946 in Chicago, Illinois. Though born in the United States, her Japanese heritage played a big role in her identity and experiences.
When she was just six years old, Teruko and her twin sister were sent to a Japanese-American internment camp during World War II. These camps were set up by the U.S. government during a time of national fear and prejudice. For a child, it was a difficult and confusing time. But even then, Teruko found ways to stay joyful — playing games, making friends, and learning resilience.
Later in life, she changed her name from Irene Nakagami to Teruko, embracing her cultural roots more fully.
Marriage to Jazz Legend Wayne Shorter
Before Billy Dee Williams came into her life, Teruko married Wayne Shorter, a brilliant and widely respected jazz saxophonist. They tied the knot on July 28, 1961. She was quite young, but their bond was meaningful and left a mark in jazz history.
The couple had a daughter, Miyako, that same year. Wayne adored Teruko — he once said she looked like a “Japanese Audrey Hepburn.” Her photo even appeared on the cover of his iconic 1966 album “Speak No Evil.”
Wayne wrote several heartfelt pieces inspired by their life together, including:
“Miyako” — dedicated to their daughter
“Infant Eyes” — reflecting parenthood and tenderness
Though their marriage ended, it did so quietly and respectfully. Their time together continues to live on through Wayne’s music.
Meeting Billy Dee Williams
After her divorce from Wayne Shorter, Teruko moved in a new direction. It wasn’t long before she met rising actor Billy Dee Williams, who had begun making his mark in Hollywood.
The details of their first meeting are not widely known. But what is known is how deeply Billy admired her. In several interviews, he described her as calm, honorable, and grounded — someone who helped keep his life in balance.
“She forces me to deal with things,” Billy once shared.
“Otherwise, I’d be running around like a crazy person.”
Clearly, Teruko brought more than love — she brought stability and strength.
Marriage and Family Life
The couple married on December 27, 1972, in a private ceremony in Tokyo, Japan. It was a quiet affair — no Hollywood glitz, just two people starting a life together.
In 1973, they welcomed their daughter Hanako Williams. The family settled into a modest home in the Hollywood Hills, away from the flash of cameras and parties. Teruko valued privacy, peace, and home life over fame.
Their daughter, Hanako, would later grow into a thoughtful and creative adult, becoming the general manager of an art gallery in Los Angeles.
Hanako married Liam Toohey, and they have two children:
Lucie Katsumi (daughter)
Finnegan Ichiro (son)
In 2015, Teruko, Billy, and grandson Finnegan walked the red carpet together at the Star Wars: The Force Awakens premiere — a beautiful three-generation moment.
Separation and Reunion
Like many couples, Teruko and Billy faced challenges. In 1993, they separated and even filed for divorce. But the split wasn’t full of anger or drama. A spokesperson called it an “amicable parting,” showing the mutual respect they maintained.
What makes their story even more unique is what happened next: after four years apart, they reconciled in 1997. They realized their bond was too deep to break. Since then, they’ve remained together, sharing life’s ups and downs with quiet strength.
Where Is Teruko Nakagami Today?
As of 2025, Teruko Nakagami continues to live a private life with Billy Dee Williams in Studio City, California. She does not appear on social media and rarely makes public appearances.
However, she’s occasionally seen at film premieres or family events. One memorable appearance was in 2015, standing proudly next to Billy and their grandson at a major Star Wars event.
Though she avoids the spotlight, her presence is felt deeply within her family.
Her Quiet but Strong Legacy
Teruko Nakagami is not a celebrity by profession, but her legacy is no less impactful. Her influence is found in the music of Wayne Shorter, the steady success of Billy Dee Williams, and the creativity of her children and grandchildren.
She never sought fame, yet became a symbol of loyalty, calm, and grace.
Through every chapter — childhood hardship, artistic inspiration, Hollywood marriage — she showed strength, dignity, and quiet resilience. That’s what makes her story so special.
Final Thoughts
So, who is Teruko Nakagami?
She’s not just the wife of a famous actor or the muse of a jazz legend. She’s a woman who has lived through history, love, motherhood, and fame — all while keeping her values strong and her life grounded.
In a world that often rewards noise, Teruko shows us the power of silence, honor, and staying true to who you are.
Her story is not just worth telling — it’s worth remembering.
FAQs
What is Teruko Nakagami’s age?
She is 78 years old as of 2025, born in 1946.
Where does Teruko Nakagami live now?
She lives with Billy Dee Williams in Studio City, California.
Who was her first husband?
Her first husband was jazz saxophonist Wayne Shorter.
How long has she been married to Billy Dee Williams?
They’ve been married since 1972, with a brief separation in the 1990s.
Is Teruko Nakagami active on social media?
No, she maintains a very private life and does not appear on public social platforms.