Veteran Hong Kong martial artist and actor Bruce Leung, also known as Leung Siu-lung, has passed away at the age of 77, marking the end of an era in Asian martial arts cinema.
According to reports from Hong Kong media, citing a close friend of the late actor, Bruce Leung died on January 14 from causes that have not yet been disclosed to the public.
Sources revealed that his family is currently making arrangements for his burial, with a farewell ceremony scheduled to take place on January 26 in the Longgang district of Shenzhen, China.
Shortly after news of his passing became public, an emotional farewell message written by Bruce Leung himself was shared on his official Douyin account.
The message, dated January 14 and accompanied by photos of the legendary actor, struck a chord with fans and followers across the world.
It read:
“I’ve gone to a very, very faraway place to make a film. Please forgive me for leaving without saying goodbye. Just think of it as me having gone to a very distant place to shoot a movie.
“I had intended to keep it a secret, so my close disciple continued posting videos as usual. I like having a bit of mystery. Live well on my behalf. Love is always here. Remember that I love you all.”
Colleagues, fans pay tribute
Following the announcement of his death, tributes have poured in from colleagues, fans, and admirers across the global film industry, many describing him as a true legend of martial arts cinema.
Renowned filmmaker and actor Stephen Chow paid tribute to Bruce Leung via an Instagram Story, where he wrote:
“Forever remembering Mr Leung Siu-lung.”
Legendary actor Jackie Chan also reacted emotionally to the news, expressing his disbelief in a post shared on Weibo.
He wrote:
“For a moment, I couldn’t – and didn’t want to – believe it.”
Reflecting on Bruce Leung’s immense contribution to the film industry, Jackie Chan praised his versatility, discipline, and lasting influence.
According to Chan:
“He was always a kung fu master proficient in many forms of traditional martial arts and able to express his own distinctive style in each one.
“He applied everything he had learnt over a lifetime to film and television, becoming an outstanding action director. At the same time, as an actor, he brought to life so many classic roles that were deeply loved by audiences and greatly admired by us fellow professionals as well.”
Chan concluded his tribute with a touching personal message:
“Brother Leung, it’s snowing in Beijing. The sky is gloomy and I’m thinking of you.”
Bruce Leung is widely remembered as a martial arts icon whose influence on cinema continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
Life and legacy of Leung
Bruce Leung rose to prominence during the 1970s and 1980s, starring in several iconic martial arts films that helped define the golden era of kung fu cinema.
His notable works include The Dragon Lives Again (1977) and Magnificent Bodyguards (1978), where he appeared alongside fellow legend Jackie Chan, earning respect for his powerful screen presence and authentic fighting style.
After stepping away from the spotlight in the 1980s, Leung made a remarkable comeback in 2004.
He captivated a new generation of moviegoers with his unforgettable role as the fearsome Beast in Stephen Chow’s blockbuster film Kung Fu Hustle, cementing his status as a timeless figure in martial arts film history.