Jim Kelly

Known for ActingBorn 1946-05-05Died 2013-06-29Paris, Kentucky, USA

James Milton "Jim" Kelly (May 5, 1946 – June 29, 2013) was an American athlete, martial artist, and actor best known for his roles in 1970s action and blaxploitation films. Born in Millersburg, Kentucky, Kelly excelled in athletics from a young age, participating in multiple sports before dedicating himself to Okinawan karate. He became a decorated karate champion, winning several prestigious titles in 1971 and opening his own dojo in Los Angeles. His appearance alongside Bruce Lee in "Enter the Dragon" (1973) launched his acting career, leading to starring roles in films like "Black Belt Jones" (1974) and "Three the Hard Way" (1974). Beyond martial arts and acting, Kelly was also a professional tennis player, achieving a high ranking in senior men's doubles in California. Jim Kelly, who was 6'2" (1.88 m), died on June 29, 2013, in San Diego, California, due to cancer. He is remembered as the first Black martial arts film star, who broke down the color barrier and left a memorable presence on screen.Read more

Movies & web series

Macked, Hammered, Slaughtered and Shafted

The Unbeatable Bruce Lee

Death by Misadventure: The Mysterious Life of Bruce Lee

Kings of Cult

Bruce Lee, the Legend

Highway to Heaven

Enter the Dragon

Top Fighter

Ultimatum

Stranglehold

BaadAsssss Cinema

Three the Hard Way

Black Belt Jones

Mr. No Legs

Black Samurai

The Tattoo Connection

Take a Hard Ride

Golden Needles

Afro Ninja

One Down, Two to Go

Melinda

Death Dimension

Hot Potato

Afros, Macks & Zodiacs

Location: Hong Kong with Enter the Dragon