Leung Siu-lung, Kung Fu Hustle Star, Dies at 77: Fans Mourn

Leung Siu-lung, the 77-year-old Hong Kong martial artist and actor best known for his role as the “Beast” in the cult hit Kung Fu Hustle, died on January 14, his passing confirmed by friends. His funeral is scheduled for January 26 in Longgang, Shenzhen; the exact cause of death has not been disclosed.

• Full name: Leung Siu-lung
• Age: 77
• Date of death: January 14
• Funeral: January 26 — Longgang, Shenzhen, Guangdong
• Cause: Not disclosed
• Known for: Kung Fu Hustle; action roles and choreography across Hong Kong cinema

The Legacy

Leung Siu-lung built a multi-decade career as a martial artist, action choreographer and character actor who left an unmistakable mark on Hong Kong action cinema. He worked with international and regional stars — including Chow Yun Fat, Bruce Li and Jim Kelly — bringing authentic traditional martial-arts technique and a distinct screen presence to every project.

1. Kung Fu Hustle — As the imposing “Beast,” Leung delivered one of his most memorable screen performances in Stephen Chow’s cult classic.
2. The Legendary Fok — A standout role in a major martial-arts drama that showcased his skills and authenticity as a martial artist.
3. Fist of Fury / IP Man (TV) — Notable performances across martial-arts franchises and television adaptations that broadened his influence with new audiences.

Reactions and Tributes

The industry and fans quickly rallied with condolences and memories. Jackie Chan honored his former co-star on Weibo, calling Leung a “kung fu master skilled in multiple traditional martial arts” and praising his lifetime of work as an action choreographer and actor. Chan wrote,

“Just returned to Beijing and was shocked to hear of Mr. Leung Siu-lung’s passing. For a moment, I could neither believe nor accept it… In my memory, he was always the kung fu master skilled in multiple traditional martial arts, each executed with his own unique style.”

“He brought a lifetime of expertise to film and television, serving as an outstanding action choreographer. As an actor, he created so many iconic roles that were deeply loved by audiences and admired by all of us in the industry.”

“Brother Leung, it’s snowing in Beijing, the sky is gray, and I am remembering you…”

Stephen Chow, who directed and co-starred with Leung in Kung Fu Hustle, posted to his Instagram Stories with the caption: “Forever remembering Mr. Leung Siu-lung.”

Leung’s official Douyin account released a poetic farewell said to be on the actor’s behalf: “Please forgive me for leaving without saying goodbye. Just think of it as me going to a faraway place to make a film… Live well on my behalf. Love is always there.” The post was titled, “I’ve gone to a faraway place to make a film.”

Colleagues, co-stars and fans across Greater China and beyond have shared photos, clips and memories of Leung’s on-screen intensity and behind-the-scenes craftsmanship. Industry voices emphasized his dual legacy as both a performer and a stunt/action choreographer who elevated countless productions.

Leung Siu-lung’s death closes a seminal chapter in Hong Kong action cinema. With funeral arrangements set and formal statements continuing to appear, many in the martial-arts and film community are expected to pay public tribute in the coming days. The cause of death remains unreported.