Legendary martial arts actor Bruce Leung passed away

Writer: Heidi Hsia

Martial arts legend Bruce Leung dies at 77

19 Jan - Veteran Hong Kong martial arts actor Bruce Leung (Leung Siu Long) has recently passed away.

On 18 January, Bruce's Douyin account posted a farewell message, which read, "Please forgive me for leaving without saying goodbye. Just consider it as me going to a faraway place to film a movie. I like a little mystery. Live well for me. Love is always there. Remember I love you all. Leung Siu-lung, January 14, 2026."

According to veteran filmmaker Tin Kai Man, Bruce passed away due to heart failure. Admitting to be devastated by the news, Tin said that having met with the actor previously, he noted that Bruce had always been in excellent health.

Bruce Leung was born Leung Choi Sang

Bruce, whose real name was Leung Choi-sang, learned martial arts such as Wing Chun and Karate from a young age and was recognised in the Hong Kong film industry as a "good fighter".

He entered the industry as a stuntman at the age of 15 and had acted in many TV series and movies such as "Lady Kung Fu," "The Legend of the Condor Heroes," and "Broken Oath". Afterwards, Bruce went into business in mainland China and retired from acting for nearly 20 years.

In 2004, he made a comeback in Stephen Chow's film "Kung Fu Hustle," playing the role of Beast, which boosted his popularity once again.

He was 77.

Bruce became famous again through 'Kung Fu Hustle'

Cinema Online, 19 January 2026