Legendary 'Beast' of Kung Fu Hustle, Bruce Leung, dies; emotional final post: 'Going Far, Far Away to shoot

Hong Kong (The Uttam Hindu): Renowned martial artist and Hong Kong cinema veteran Bruce Leung Siu-lung has passed away at the age of 77. He was recognized worldwide for his role as the ruthless villain "The Beast" in the 2004 superhit film "Kung Fu Hustle." His death has sent shockwaves through the martial arts and film worlds.

He breathed his last on January 14, and the message came after his death

According to Hong Kong media reports, Bruce Leung passed away on January 14th, although the cause of death has not yet been disclosed. Just hours after news of his passing became public, a final message from him was posted on his social media account (Douyin) on Sunday night (January 18th). The message, dated January 14th, read, "I am going far, far away to make a film. Please forgive me for leaving without saying goodbye. Just think I'm shooting somewhere far away. I wanted to keep it a secret, so my apprentice continued posting videos as usual. From my side, you all have a good life. Remember that I love you all." His funeral will be held on January 26th in the Longgang district of Shenzhen, China.

Worked with Jackie Chan, returned as 'The Beast'

Bruce Leung had a prolific career. He starred in numerous martial arts films before retiring in the 1980s. 3 Among these were 1977's "The Dragon Lives Again" and 1978's "Magnificent Bodyguards," in which he starred alongside Jackie Chan. After a long break, he returned in 2004 with Stephen Chow's comedy "Kung Fu Hustle." His portrayal of "The Beast" in this film gave him a new identity among the youth.

Jackie Chan expressed deep sorrow

Veteran actor Jackie Chan expressed his deep sorrow on his Weibo account over the passing of Bruce Leung. He wrote that he was shocked to hear the news and was in disbelief for a moment. Paying tribute to him, Jackie Chan said that he was a kung fu master who was adept at many traditional styles and a brilliant action director. He concluded his post with an emotional note, "Brother Leung, it's snowing in Beijing, the sky is gloomy, and I'm missing you."