The Last Dragon with Taimak

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In this episode, Josselyne Herman-Saccio interviews Taimak Guarriello, star of the cult classic film THE LAST DRAGON. He talks about his journey in the entertainment industry and his experiences with martial arts and meditation. Taimak shares how his love for comic books and superhero movies inspired him to become an actor. He also discusses the impact of martial arts on his personal growth and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of intention and selflessness in achieving success and making a difference in the world.

Taimak grew up in New York City until he was seven years old. Coming from an interracial background (African American and Italian) his parents chose to move him, his brother and two sisters to Europe. That’s where he got his first taste of the entertainment business. At 11 years old, he had the privilege to meet legendary director and family friend Federico Fellini. Mr. Fellini took Taimak and his family on a tour of Cinecitta studios and the set of “Roma” where he also met another film legend, Vincent Minnelli. They eventually moved back to New York City where he delved deeper into martial arts training. At 18 years of age, he won the New York State kickboxing championship, and the very next year he was cast by music mogul and Motown legend Berry Gordy to play the lead role in the cult classic film “The Last Dragon”. He was Bruce Leroy, the Bruce Lee wannabe in search of “The Glow”.

Taimak was quickly catapulted into Hollywood . He’s appeared in many stage plays, including the highly successful “Roadhouse the Comedy” at the Barrow Street Theater in New York City, playing the notable role of Dalton in this zany comedy rendition of Patrick Swayze’s 80’s cult classic film and the national tour of the star-studded cast of “Cheaters” to name a few. As a martial arts choreographer, he had the honor of being inducted into The Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2010. He’s worked with Madonna as martial arts coordinator for her Drowned World Tour number “Sky Fits Heaven”, Debbie Allen, as well as Gavin Rosedale as martial arts choreographer for his Chemicals Between Us video. Taimak has been sidelined due to spinal injuries, he’s getting better and working to a full recovery this year. He has also completed his autobiography “Taimak- The Last Dragon and is currently on a U.S tour ,you can find his book on Amazon.