Photo credit: Mabumbe

Veteran martial arts actor Bruce Leung Siu-Lung, best known to younger audiences as the fearsome “Beast” in Kung Fu Hustle, has passed away at the age of 77, marking the end of a legendary career that helped shape Hong Kong action cinema.

Leung, who rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s, was one of the standout martial arts performers of his generation. Long before his scene-stealing appearance in Stephen Chow’s 2004 hit, he had already built a reputation as a skilled fighter and commanding screen presence in classic kung fu films.

Often associated with the golden era of Hong Kong cinema, Leung starred in numerous action movies that showcased traditional martial arts at a time when the genre was gaining global attention. His work placed him among the era’s most recognizable kung fu stars, earning admiration from fans and fellow performers alike.

While Kung Fu Hustle introduced him to a new generation, longtime fans remember Leung for his earlier roles, intense fight choreography, and deep respect for martial arts traditions. His portrayal of the silent but deadly Beast became one of the film’s most memorable characters and cemented his legacy worldwide.

Bruce Leung’s passing has sparked tributes from fans across Asia and beyond, many praising his lasting influence on martial arts films and his role in keeping the genre alive across decades.

He is survived by a body of work that continues to inspire action stars and martial arts enthusiasts around the world.