Veteran Hong Kong martial arts actor Siu-Lung Leung, best remembered by global audiences for his unforgettable role as The Beast in Stephen Chow’s cult hit Kung Fu Hustle, has died at the age of 77. His passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic Asian action cinema, particularly those who grew up watching traditional kung fu films.
Family members confirmed that Leung died after suffering a cardiac arrest while in Shenzhen, China. He had reportedly been in good spirits just days earlier, spending time with friends and enjoying a meal together. News of his death has since prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow actors, filmmakers and long-time admirers across Asia and beyond.
Widely regarded as a martial arts purist, Leung was admired for bringing authentic fighting techniques to the screen at a time when Hong Kong cinema was shaping global perceptions of kung fu. His influence continues to resonate among action movie fans in Singapore and across the region, where classic martial arts films remain widely streamed and discussed.
Cause Of Death And Final Farewell
Close friends and Hong Kong media reports indicated that cardiac arrest was the cause of death. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, cutting off blood flow to vital organs. While often linked to underlying heart conditions, it can also strike without warning, even in individuals who appear healthy.
Leung’s family publicly announced his passing several days later, allowing close friends time to process the loss privately. In a poignant final gesture, a message was shared through his official social media account, suggesting that he had “gone to a faraway place to film a movie” and encouraging followers to live well in his absence.
A private farewell ceremony is expected to take place in Shenzhen. Out of respect for the family, details have been kept low-key, reflecting Leung’s personal preference for a quiet life away from the limelight in his later years.
Who Was Siu-Lung Leung?
Born Leung Choi-sang in 1948 in British-era Hong Kong, Siu-Lung Leung began his martial arts training as a teenager. He studied disciplines including Wing Chun and Goju-ryu karate, building a strong technical foundation that would later define his on-screen presence.
He entered the film industry at a young age as a stunt performer before gradually taking on acting roles throughout the 1970s and 1980s. During this period, he became associated with the “Bruceploitation” wave of cinema, a genre that emerged following Bruce Lee’s death and sought to carry forward traditional kung fu storytelling.
His most widely recognised performance came decades later in Kung Fu Hustle, where his portrayal of The Beast blended brutal fighting prowess with dark comedy. The role introduced him to a new generation of fans, including many in Singapore who discovered the film through home video, streaming platforms and late-night television re-runs.
Tributes From The Film Industry
Following the announcement of his death, several prominent figures paid tribute to Leung’s legacy. Jackie Chan described him as a “true kung fu man” who respected tradition and brought sincerity to every role. Director Stephen Chow also shared a brief but emotional message, honouring Leung’s contribution to cinema.
For many, Siu-Lung Leung represented a bridge between old-school martial arts films and modern action-comedy cinema. His passing at 77 serves as a reminder of the lasting cultural impact of Hong Kong’s golden age of filmmaking, an influence still felt strongly among Asian film enthusiasts today.