Jon Miyahara, known for his role as the silent but impactful Cloud 9 employee Brett Kobashigawa on NBC’s popular workplace comedy Superstore, has passed away at the age of 83. His death was confirmed by fellow cast member Colton Dunn through an emotional post on Instagram. While the cause and date of death have not been disclosed, Dunn expressed heartfelt sentiments about Miyahara’s character and presence on set.
Miyahara’s portrayal of Brett was characterized by his minimal dialogue and expressive demeanor. Throughout the show’s six seasons, he appeared in all but eight of the series’ 113 episodes. His character often contributed to the humor with deadpan reactions, punctuating scenes with silent stares that left a lasting impression on viewers. The most notable moment came when he uttered the line, “Oh, shit,” during a dramatic tornado scene, which has since become a memorable highlight of the series.
Career Highlights and Personal Life
Born as Jonathan Yasushi Miyahara on August 8, 1941, in Los Angeles, he briefly reprised his role in a cameo on NBC’s American Auto, another sitcom created by Justin Spitzer. Outside of these roles, Miyahara did not have significant acting credits, but his impact on Superstore was undeniable.
In one of the most memorable storylines, the other employees held a memorial for Brett after they believed he had been swept away by the tornado. This poignant moment showcased the camaraderie among the cast, as Kaliko Kauahi’s character performed Radiohead’s “Creep.” When Season 3 began, audiences were delighted to see Brett return to work, embodying his character’s calm and collected nature.
Following the news of his passing, former co-stars shared tributes on social media. Kelly Stables, who portrayed Kelly, remembered him fondly, saying, “Oh man! He was always so sweet.” Irene White (Carol) remarked on his character, stating, “What an incredible man.” Michael Bunin (Jeff) conveyed his sorrow, reminiscing about the enjoyable times they shared on set.
Miyahara’s understated yet profound performances made him a cherished member of the Superstore family. His ability to convey emotions through silence left a unique mark on the show, affirming his talent as an actor. As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Jon Miyahara’s legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
