Veteran Hong Kong Actor Bruce Leung Passes Away
Bruce Leung Siu-Lung, a well-known Hong Kong martial arts actor, has passed away at the age of 77 after an undisclosed illness. Reports said he spent his final day normally, having dinner and taking photos with friends, making his sudden death even more shocking for fans and colleagues. His funeral is scheduled to be held on the 26th in Longgang District, Shenzhen, China.
Leung was one of the leading action stars during the golden era of Hong Kong martial arts films in the 1970s and 1980s. He built a strong career with memorable roles in films such as The Invincible Eight, Black Belt Karate, The Fists, the Kicks and the Evil, Magnificent Bodyguards, Gallants, Kung Fu League, and the globally popular Kung Fu Hustle. Many international viewers especially remember him as The Beast, the powerful villain in Stephen Chow’s Kung Fu Hustle, a role that introduced him to a new generation of fans.
He was also known for being part of the “Bruceploitation” era, where actors carried names and roles inspired by Bruce Lee. Leung appeared in films under names such as Bruce Leung and Bruce Liang and portrayed characters similar to Bruce Lee’s iconic roles, including Chen Zhen in television adaptations. Alongside Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, he was sometimes called one of the “Three Dragons of Hong Kong,” a title that reflected his strong influence in martial arts cinema.
Jackie Chan expressed deep respect and sadness over Leung’s passing, describing him as a true martial artist who mastered traditional kung fu and earned admiration across the industry. He praised Leung’s lifelong dedication and the skill he brought to every performance.
Bruce Leung leaves behind a powerful legacy in action films and martial arts entertainment. His performances inspired audiences and future performers, and his work continues to be appreciated worldwide. While his passing marks the end of an era, his impact on Hong Kong cinema and martial arts culture will live on through his films.