Kung fu stars from the golden era of martial arts cinema have left an indelible mark on film and pop culture. Let’s take a look at what some of these legends look like today and where their careers have taken them:
1. Jackie Chan
- Then: Jackie Chan began as a stuntman and protege of Bruce Lee before rising to stardom with his unique blend of comedy and kung fu in movies like Drunken Master and Police Story.
- Now: Jackie Chan remains active in the industry and continues to act, produce, and even sing in some of his films. At 70, he’s still involved in martial arts and stunt-heavy roles, though he’s shifted towards more family-friendly projects and voice roles in animated films like Kung Fu Panda. He continues to champion global charity work.
2. Jet Li
- Then: Known for his speed and agility, Jet Li starred in a series of Chinese and Hollywood blockbusters like Once Upon a Time in China, Romeo Must Die, and The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor.
- Now: Li’s recent public appearances have shown his aging more visibly due to health issues related to hyperthyroidism. However, he remains active in the film industry in advisory roles and remains focused on philanthropy through the One Foundation, which he established to support disaster relief efforts.
3. Donnie Yen
- Then: Donnie Yen gained fame with films like Iron Monkey and Ip Man, where he portrayed the legendary wing chun master, Ip Man.
- Now: Yen is still a powerhouse in action cinema, recently starring in John Wick: Chapter 4 alongside Keanu Reeves. Known for bringing precision and intensity to his roles, he continues to push martial arts choreography to new heights and is well-respected in Hollywood and international cinema.
4. Michelle Yeoh
- Then: Known for her elegance and skill in movies like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Police Story 3, Yeoh is one of the few women in kung fu cinema who performed many of her own stunts.
- Now: Michelle Yeoh’s career is in full bloom. In recent years, she’s won an Academy Award for her role in Everything Everywhere All at Once and is celebrated for her work in Crazy Rich Asians. She remains an icon of martial arts and Asian representation in Hollywood.
5. Sammo Hung
- Then: A friend and colleague of Jackie Chan, Sammo Hung became known for his agility despite his large frame, starring in films like The Magnificent Butcher and Encounters of the Spooky Kind.
- Now: Hung is still active in both acting and choreography, though he has transitioned more towards directing. He continues to be a respected figure in Hong Kong cinema and occasionally appears in martial arts projects that showcase his legendary skills.
6. Gordon Liu
- Then: A staple of Shaw Brothers Studio films, Gordon Liu was best known for The 36th Chamber of Shaolin and for his iconic roles in Kill Bill Vol. 1 and Vol. 2.
- Now: Liu’s career slowed after he suffered a stroke in 2011, which left him partially paralyzed. Although he’s retired from acting, he remains a celebrated figure in martial arts cinema and is highly respected for his contribution to the genre.
7. Cynthia Rothrock
- Then: One of the few Western stars of martial arts cinema, Rothrock was known for her roles in Yes, Madam! and China O’Brien, showcasing her impressive martial arts skills.
- Now: Cynthia Rothrock continues to be active in the martial arts world through teaching and seminars. Though she has mostly retired from acting, she’s involved in occasional projects and remains an inspiration for women in martial arts.
These stars may have aged, but their influence endures in both the world of cinema and martial arts. Whether through mentorship, charity work, or the occasional screen appearance, they continue to shape the industry they helped build.
