Sun Jan 18 09:10:00 UTC 2026: # Martial Arts Film Icon Leung Siu-lung, Best Known as “Beast” in Kung Fu Hustle, Dies at 77

The Story:
Leung Siu-lung, the Hong Kong martial arts actor renowned for his role as “Beast” (火云邪神) in Stephen Chow’s Kung Fu Hustle (功夫), has passed away at the age of 77. The news, reported by Hong Kong media and shared by @中国电影报道, indicates that his family is privately handling funeral arrangements, with a service tentatively scheduled for January 26, 2024, in Longgang, Shenzhen. Leung was a prominent figure in Hong Kong cinema, known as one of the “Four Little Dragons” alongside Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Ti Lung in the 1970s.

Key Points:

  • Leung Siu-lung passed away on January 14, 2024, at the age of 77.
  • He was born on April 28, 1948, in Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, China.
  • He was considered one of the “Four Little Dragons” of Hong Kong cinema in the 1970s.
  • He gained prominence for his role as Chen Zhen in the TV series The Legendary Fok/Huo Yuanjia (大侠霍元甲) (1981) and Chen Zhen (1982), which were widely popular in mainland China.
  • He played the role of “Beast” in Stephen Chow’s Kung Fu Hustle (2004).
  • He received the “Best Action Actor” award at the China Kung Fu Global Ceremony in 2007.
  • In 2024, he received the Asian Film Kung Fu Star award at the inaugural Asian International Film Festival.

Key Takeaways:

  • The passing of Leung Siu-lung marks the end of an era for Hong Kong martial arts cinema.
  • His portrayal of Chen Zhen in The Legendary Fok and Chen Zhen contributed significantly to his popularity throughout the Chinese-speaking world.
  • His later role in Kung Fu Hustle introduced him to a new generation of audiences.
  • Leung Siu-lung’s career spanned several decades, showcasing his dedication to martial arts and acting.
  • His contributions to action cinema were recognized with awards and accolades throughout his career.

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