Jackie Chan and Industry Mourn the Passing of Bruce Leung

Hong Kong action icon Jackie Chan, along with fellow actors and fans worldwide, is mourning the loss of martial arts star Bruce Leung, who passed away on January 14th at the age of 77. The news has sent ripples of sadness throughout the film industry and among devoted fans.

Chan took to Weibo to express his shock and grief, sharing a photo of himself with Leung. He wrote, “For a moment, I didn’t and refused to believe it. In my memory, he has always been a true gongfu master, skilled in traditional martial arts.” Chan fondly remembered Leung as an exceptional martial arts instructor and a beloved figure among his peers.

Bruce Leung stars in Hong Kong action comedy Gallants (2010). (Photo: Hong Kong Film Festival 2011)

Tributes Pour In From Across the Industry

Stephen Chow, Chan’s co-star in the hit film Kung Fu Hustle (2004), also paid tribute on Instagram, posting a photo of Leung in a classic martial arts pose with the simple, heartfelt message: “Remembering Mr Leung Siu-lung forever.”

Fans have also flooded social media with messages of respect and remembrance. One user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “Bruce was a legendary Hong Kong martial arts actor whose powerful screen presence shaped a generation. He made my childhood unforgettable. His legacy will be missed.” Another Facebook user highlighted Leung’s impact on Kung Fu Hustle, stating that his role elevated the film beyond a simple comedy.

A Career Spanning Decades

Leung’s representative announced his passing on January 19th, stating he died from an illness in Shenzhen, surrounded by his family. While the specific illness hasn’t been publicly disclosed, fellow actor Tin Kai-man revealed that Leung succumbed to heart failure. A farewell message posted on Leung’s Douyin account on January 18th first brought news of his death to the public.

Leung began his career in the 1970s, quickly establishing himself as a prominent figure in Hong Kong cinema. He was celebrated for his roles in films such as The Dragon Lives Again (1977), Magnificent Bodyguards (1978), and Gallants (2010). His dedication to traditional martial arts and his charismatic screen presence left an indelible mark on the genre.

Bruce Leung’s contributions to Hong Kong cinema and the world of martial arts will be deeply missed. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and fans alike. For more information on Hong Kong cinema, explore resources like the Hong Kong International Film Festival.