The martial arts and entertainment communities are mourning the loss of James Lew, a celebrated martial artist, actor, stunt performer, stunt coordinator, and longtime friend to many throughout Hollywood and the martial arts world.
For more than five decades, James built an extraordinary career at the intersection of martial arts and film. He was known for his distinctive screen presence, exceptional martial arts ability, and remarkable contribution to action filmmaking both in front of and behind the camera.
James was a martial arts master whose career began long before he became a familiar face on screen. He studied kung fu under renowned instructor Douglas Wong in Southern California and became part of a remarkable generation of martial artists emerging from the region.
During the 1970s, James became a prominent competitor on the Southern California tournament circuit, participating in both empty-hand forms and weapons competition and earning numerous championships. His talent and charisma also made him a recognizable figure in the martial arts press, including repeated appearances on the cover of Inside Kung-Fu magazine.
His path eventually led him to Hollywood.
James began working in film and television during the 1970s, with credits reaching back to the era of the original Kung Fu television series starring David Carradine. His career continued to grow throughout the following decades, establishing him as one of the most recognizable martial artists and stunt performers in the industry.
Among the productions that helped make James especially memorable was Big Trouble in Little China. His distinctive appearance, movement, and martial arts ability left an impression on audiences and helped cement his place in the history of action cinema.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, James became a familiar presence in Hollywood action productions. He worked alongside and contributed to projects associated with major stars including Steven Seagal, Jackie Chan, Dolph Lundgren, Jean-Claude Van Damme, and Jeff Speakman.
His credits included films and television productions such as Showdown in Little Tokyo, The Perfect Weapon, Double Impact, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The Crow television series, and Best of the Best, where he appeared alongside his close friend Simon Rhee.
But James Lew’s contribution to Hollywood extended far beyond his work as a performer.
He became highly respected behind the camera as a fight choreographer, stunt coordinator, and action specialist. James possessed a rare understanding of how martial arts could be translated into compelling storytelling for the screen. His knowledge allowed him to create action that was not only technically impressive but also dramatic, precise, and memorable.
Over the course of his career, James accumulated more than 140 film and television credits and worked across multiple generations of action entertainment.
His accomplishments were eventually recognized by the television industry with multiple Primetime Emmy nominations and awards for stunt coordination. One of the most notable honors of his career came for his work on Marvel’s Luke Cage, for which he received an Emmy for Outstanding Stunt Coordination.
In 2024, James was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame alongside Simon Rhee and Jeff Imada in the Stuntman category, recognizing the extraordinary contributions of stunt professionals to martial arts and entertainment.
For James, however, his legacy was never simply about awards or credits.
Those who knew him personally remembered a man who was approachable, humble, funny, gracious, and deeply connected to the communities that had shaped his life. He remained appreciative of longtime friendships while also welcoming fans and new acquaintances with the same warmth.
Even during the final months of his life, James continued to participate in events and gatherings that were important to him, including celebrations connected to Big Trouble in Little China, DragonFest, and the Taurus World Stunt Awards.
He wanted to remain close to the people and community he loved, and that affection was returned.
James’ life brought together two passions that remained at the center of everything he did: martial arts and movies. Through his work, he helped bring those worlds together and influenced generations of martial artists, stunt performers, actors, filmmakers, and fans.
In his final days, James was surrounded by friends and loved ones. People gathered at his bedside to say goodbye, while others reached out from around the world to let him know how much he meant to them.
Among those who contacted him were respected figures from the martial arts community, including Al Dacascos and Mike Stone, who called to express their love for their longtime friend.
That final outpouring of affection reflected the life James had lived.
His legacy cannot be measured only by the films he appeared in, the stunts he performed, the fights he choreographed, or the awards he received. It can also be found in the friendships he maintained, the performers he inspired, and the countless people who considered him a friend and mentor.
James Lew leaves behind a remarkable legacy in martial arts and Hollywood. His work helped shape the action genre, while his generosity, humor, and friendship left an equally lasting impression on the people who knew him.
He will be remembered as a martial artist, stunt performer, actor, choreographer, Emmy-winning stunt coordinator, Hall of Fame inductee, and, above all, a beloved friend.
His contributions to martial arts and film will continue to be seen for generations to come.
Heartfelt condolences go to James Lew’s family, friends, colleagues, students, and the many members of the martial arts and stunt communities mourning his passing.
May James Lew rest peacefully.
His legacy will never be forgotten.
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