Hollywood is mourning the reported passing of James Lew, the acclaimed stuntman, martial artist, actor, and fight coordinator whose decades-long career helped shape action cinema and television. Lew died in Los Angeles on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 73, according to his wife, Jordanna.
Lew was widely respected within the entertainment industry for his extraordinary martial arts skills and extensive work behind the scenes. His career included stunt and fight work on numerous productions, including Big Trouble in Little China, Lethal Weapon 4, Rush Hour, Timecop, Star Trek, and Action Jackson.
His work extended beyond performing stunts. Lew became an accomplished stunt coordinator and fight choreographer, contributing to productions across film and television. In 2017, he received a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Stunt Coordination for his work on Marvel’s Luke Cage, recognizing his contribution to one of television’s notable action productions.
Lew began studying martial arts as a teenager and developed expertise across multiple disciplines. His dedication eventually led him into Hollywood, where he became a familiar figure in martial arts and action productions beginning in the 1970s. His death has prompted tributes from colleagues and friends who remembered him not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his warmth and friendship.
Luke Cage star Mike Colter paid tribute to Lew, describing him as a friend whose legacy would endure. Lew’s wife said he had been dealing with unspecified health issues. His official cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. James Lew leaves behind a remarkable legacy in Hollywood, with generations of performers and filmmakers benefiting from his expertise, creativity, and dedication to the craft. His influence on martial arts filmmaking and stunt coordination will continue to be remembered.
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