Jet Li

Biography

Li Lianjie, widely recognized by his stage name Jet Li, was born on April 26, 1963, in Beijing, China. Known for his exceptional skills as a martial artist, actor, and film producer, he has garnered international acclaim throughout his career. Li, who now holds Singapore citizenship, began his journey to stardom with a passion for wushu, a traditional Chinese martial art.

Under the guidance of renowned coach Wu Bin, Li honed his talents and achieved his first national championship as a member of the Beijing Wushu Team. Transitioning from competitive wushu at the age of 17, he ventured into the world of acting and made a remarkable debut with the film "Shaolin Temple" in 1982. His portrayal of the iconic character Wong Fei-hung in the "Once Upon A Time In China" series solidified his status as a martial arts film legend in China.

Jet Li's foray into Hollywood began with a memorable role as a villain in "Lethal Weapon 4" (1998), marking the start of his successful crossover to Western cinema. He later secured his first leading role in a Hollywood production with "Romeo Must Die" (2000), showcasing his dynamic martial arts prowess to a global audience. Over the years, he has graced the silver screen in various action-packed blockbusters, including "The Forbidden Kingdom" (2008) alongside Jackie Chan and "The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor" (2008) where he portrayed the formidable antagonist.

In addition to his Hollywood ventures, Jet Li made a notable appearance in the star-studded ensemble cast of "The Expendables" (2010), further expanding his repertoire in the action genre. With his remarkable agility, striking presence, and dedication to his craft, he continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his electrifying performances on screen. Jet Li's contribution to the realm of martial arts cinema has left an indelible mark, solidifying his legacy as one of the most iconic figures in the industry.