Stunt Legend James Lew Dies at 73: Remembering the 'Hot Shots! Part Deux' Star
James Lew, the veteran stunt performer and coordinator, has passed away at the age of 73. His wife, Jordana Potter, announced the news on Sunday.
A Lifetime of Action and Adventure
Lew's career spanned decades, with credits on numerous films and TV shows. Born on September 6, 1952, in South Central Los Angeles, he discovered his passion for martial arts at the age of 14. This natural curiosity led him to train in taekwondo and Tang Soo Do.
A Stunt Career Like No Other
Lew's work with director John Carpenter on films like Big Trouble in Little China, They Live, and Escape From L.A. is a testament to his skill and dedication. He also worked on the Rush Hour movies, released in 1998, 2001, and 2007, and received an Emmy for outstanding stunt coordination for a drama series or movie for his work on the Netflix series Luke Cage in 2017.
A Versatile Career in Film and Television
Lew's career was not limited to stunts alone. He appeared in various films, including Black Rain (1989), Showdown in Little Tokyo (1991), Undercover Blues (1993), Under Siege 2: Dark Territory (1995), The Last Samurai (2003), Tropic Thunder (2008), Star Trek (2009), Inception (2010), Olympus Has Fallen (2013), and Avengers: Endgame (2019). He also made appearances on TV shows such as T.J. Hooker, The Fall Guy, The A-Team, Falcon Crest, and Murder, She Wrote.
A Legacy of Stunts and Comedy
Lew's work extended to comedy, with notable roles in Hot Shots! Part Deux (1993) and Rush Hour. He even wrote and directed the mockumentary 18 Fingers of Death! (2006), which was inspired by his life in Hollywood. His versatility and dedication to his craft have left a lasting impact on the film and television industry.
A Final Tribute to a Stunt Legend
James Lew's passing leaves behind a legacy of action, adventure, and comedy. His work continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide. As the film and television industry mourns the loss of this stunt legend, we remember his contributions to the world of entertainment.
Source: Hollywood Reporter