At 71, Jackie Chan, the legendary action star, continues captivating audiences with his dynamic stunts and commitment to authenticity in filmmaking.
At a Glance
- Jackie Chan has no plans to retire, emphasizing performing his own stunts as part of his identity.
- He has been in the industry for 64 years, relying on muscle memory for his stunts.
- He acknowledges technology in filmmaking as a “double-edged sword” affecting authenticity.
- Chan reprises his role in a new “Karate Kid” alongside Ralph Macchio.
A Legendary Career Continues
At 71, Jackie Chan shows no signs of slowing down. Renowned for performing his own stunts, he insists this commitment is core to his identity. Chan says, “I always do my own stunts. It’s who I am. That’s not changing until the day I retire, which is never!” His career began at eight in “Big and Little Wong Tin Bar,” and his work as a stuntman in Bruce Lee’s films laid a solid foundation for his later success.
Jackie Chan, 71, reveals when he’ll retire
Chan’s fame skyrocketed with films like “Drunken Master” and “Snake in Eagle’s Shadow” in 1978, earning him a formidable reputation. From gaining international recognition with “Rumble in the Bronx” to the blockbuster “Rush Hour,” Chan’s influence in Hollywood is undeniable. He greatly values the opportunities Hollywood offers for international stardom.
Balancing Tradition and Technology
Chan, discussing the evolution of action sequences, notes technology’s role as a mixed blessing. While it enables more complex stunts, there’s a risk of desensitizing audiences to genuine danger. Chan shares, “When you’ve done it for 64 years straight, there’s no physical preparation anymore. Everything is in your heart and soul; it is muscle memory.”
Jackie Chan, 71, Says He’ll Do His Own Stunts ‘Until the Day I Retire, Which Is Never’
However, the actor is candid about the perils of stunt work and cautions against unnecessary risks. “But I’m not encouraging anybody to risk their lives to do the stunts like I did; it truly is too dangerous,” he advises, highlighting the importance of safety in film production.
The Future: “Karate Kid: Legends”
Chan’s career looks forward to further expansion with “Karate Kid: Legends,” where he reprises his role as Mr. Han alongside Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso. Scheduled for a May 30 release, the film introduces Ben Wang as Li Fong, a kung fu prodigy facing new challenges in New York City. Chan commended Ben Wang’s humility and dedication.
The movie’s themes of friendship, dedication, and teamwork resonate deeply with Chan, echoing the values he holds dear throughout his iconic career. It promises to be a testament to Chan’s enduring legacy and contributions to the action genre, further cementing his status as a film legend.
