• Jackie Chan and Stephen Chow led tributes after Hong Kong martial arts star Bruce Leung died at 77.
  • Leung died on Jan 14 in Shenzhen; his representative said he passed after an illness, friends cited heart failure.
  • Colleagues and fans praised his skills and memorable screen roles in Kung Fu Hustle, Gallants and classic 1970s films.

Tributes from Jackie Chan and Stephen Chow

Stephen Chow, who worked with Bruce Leung in Kung Fu Hustle (2004), posted on Instagram: “Remembering Mr Leung Siu-lung forever,” alongside a photo of Leung in a classic martial arts pose.

Jackie Chan wrote on Weibo that he was stunned by the news. Chan remembered Leung as “a true gongfu master” and praised his teaching and the many iconic characters he brought to life. “Brother Leung, it’s snowing in Beijing, and the skies are cloudy. I miss you,” Chan added.

How the news emerged

Leung’s death was confirmed by a statement from his representative on Jan 19, saying he died on Jan 14 in Shenzhen surrounded by family. While the representative did not name a specific illness, actor friend Tin Kai-man told local media the cause was heart failure.

The wider public first learned of Leung’s farewell after a message appeared on his Douyin account on Jan 18.

Career highlights and on-screen legacy

Bruce Leung Siu-lung began his screen career in the 1970s. He gained recognition in films such as The Dragon Lives Again (1977) and Magnificent Bodyguards (1978). In later years he appeared in Gallants (2010), and reached new audiences with his role in Stephen Chow’s Kung Fu Hustle.

Known for a powerful screen presence and authentic martial arts skill, Leung’s performances bridged classic Hong Kong wuxia and modern action-comedy. Colleagues remember him as both a tough performer and a dedicated instructor to younger fighters.

Fans and peers react

Fans across social platforms mourned. On X (formerly Twitter), one user wrote that Leung’s “powerful screen presence shaped a generation.” Another on Facebook said his role in Kung Fu Hustle changed the tone of the comedy and remains endlessly rewatchable.

Industry peers shared photos and memories, highlighting Leung’s warmth off-camera as much as his on-screen intensity. Many noted how his work influenced later martial arts cinema and inspired performers across Asia.

What he leaves behind

Leung’s death marks the loss of a link between Hong Kong’s golden age of martial arts cinema and its contemporary revival. His roles in the 1970s helped define genre conventions; his later appearances introduced his craft to new, international audiences.

As tributes continue, colleagues and fans remember Bruce Leung Siu-lung for his skill, dedication and the characters that made him a memorable figure in martial arts film history.

Image Referance: https://www.straitstimes.com/life/entertainment/jackie-chan-and-stephen-chow-pay-tribute-to-late-hk-action-star-bruce-leung-who-died-at-77