Legendary Martial Arts Star Bruce Leung Dies at 77
The global martial arts and film community is mourning the loss of Bruce Leung, the iconic actor best known for his role as The Beast in Kung Fu Hustle. According to a CNA Lifestyle report, Bruce Leung passed away on January 14, 2026, at the age of 77. While the cause of death has not been disclosed, his family is currently preparing for his final farewell ceremony, scheduled for January 26 in Longgang District, Shenzhen, China.
The news of Bruce Leung death has sent shockwaves across Hong Kong cinema and among generations of kung fu movie fans worldwide.
A Poignant Final Message to Fans
Shortly after his passing, an emotional message appeared on Bruce Leung’s Douyin account. Written as if in his own voice, the note reflected his love for cinema and his fans. He described his departure as a long journey for a film shoot, asking forgiveness for leaving without saying goodbye and urging followers to live well on his behalf.
The message, filled with mystery and warmth, resonated deeply—mirroring the enigmatic persona that Bruce Leung carried throughout his career.
Tributes Pour In From the Film Industry
As news of Bruce Leung death broke, heartfelt tributes followed from some of the biggest names in cinema.
Stephen Chow, director of Kung Fu Hustle, wrote simply yet powerfully: “Siu-Lung Leung will always be remembered.”
Jackie Chan, in an emotional tribute, praised Leung as a true kung fu master who mastered multiple traditional martial arts styles and brought them authentically to screen. He described Beijing’s snowfall as a reflection of his sorrow, calling Leung’s passing a profound personal loss.
These reactions underline the deep respect Bruce Leung commanded among his peers.
Why Bruce Leung Matters Right Now
In an era where martial arts cinema is being rediscovered by younger audiences through streaming platforms, Bruce Leung’s legacy feels especially relevant. His unforgettable performance as ‘The Beast’ in Kung Fu Hustle (2004) introduced him to a global audience and redefined how older martial artists could dominate the screen with presence alone.
Beyond that role, he was a major figure in Hong Kong martial arts cinema during the 1970s and 1980s, appearing in classics like The Dragon Lives Again and Magnificent Bodyguards. After Bruce Lee’s death, Leung became one of the most recognizable faces of the Bruceploitation era, while still maintaining his own identity.
A Legacy That Lives On
Bruce Leung was more than an actor—he was a bridge between traditional martial arts and modern cinema. His work as an action director, television performer (The Legendary Fok), and mentor influenced countless artists.
Key takeaways from his career include:
Authentic representation of traditional kung fu on screen
Longevity across film and television
Reinvention later in life with global recognition
As fans revisit his films, Bruce Leung’s spirit continues to inspire discipline, artistry, and respect for martial arts culture.
Bruce Leung may be gone, but ‘The Beast’ and the legend behind it will never fade.
