James Lew, a skilled martial artist and longtime Hollywood stuntman, has died. He was 73.
Videos by Wide Open Country
TMZ reported that Lew was battling health issues, but a cause of death has not been disclosed.
Over his storied career, Lew appeared in dozens of Hollywood films, including Rush Hour, Big Trouble in Little China, Lethal Weapon 4, and Star Trek.
His wife, Jordanna, shared an emotional farewell message to Lew via Instagram.
"Honey, I imagine you walking the beach with Dudley, sparring with Bruce Lee and finally getting to hug your Dad again. James MF Lew. You are loved and will be deeply missed," she captioned photos of her late husband.
Jordanna confirmed to TMZ that Lew passed away on Saturday, Aug. 23 in Los Angeles.
Lew was known best for his well-executed stunts in Hollywood projects. The martial artists did stunt work in Inception, Luke Cage, Avengers: Endgame, the live-action Mulan, Teen Wolf, and Rush Hour 2, among others.
James Lew Was an Award-Winning Stuntman
Lew became a multiple-time Primetime Emmy Award nominee and winner for stunt coordination. He won an Emmy for his work on Luke Cage.
His last credited role was in 2026's Busboys. Lew has several projects listed in post-production on his IMDb.
In 2024, Black Belt Magazine inducted James Lew into the Black Belt Hall of Fame alongside Simon Rhee and Jeff Imada in the Stuntman category —the first time the Hall of Fame specifically honored the contribution of stunt performers.
Fellow stuntman Simon Rhee wrote a heartfelt tribute to James Lew, shared by Black Belt Magazine.
"James Lew was the most positive person I have ever known ... The ultimate professional when working and always making light of challenging situations to get the job done. His work was his life - even towards the end, he was always ready to go to work."
"Everyone loved him and his personality and positivity set him apart from everyone else. It has been my pleasure being your friend for over almost 50 years, and helping to care for you in the end."
Rhee concluded, "It's time for you to make God smile. Rest in peace, my friend. I'll see you again for dim sum and pie again soon."
