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Jim Kelly

Personal Info

Known For

Acting

Birthdate

1946-05-05

Day of Death

2013-06-29

Place of Birth

Paris, Kentucky, USA

Jim Kelly

Biography

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.

Filmography (24)

⭐ 7.7 Role: (archive footage)

Kings of Cult

2015
⭐ 4.8 Role: Cleavon Washington

Afro Ninja

2009
⭐ 10.0 Role: Self

Macked, Hammered, Slaughtered and Shafted

2004
⭐ 6.0 Role: Self

BaadAsssss Cinema

2002
⭐ 8.4 Role: Unknown

The Unbeatable Bruce Lee

2001
⭐ 6.7 Role: Self

Top Fighter

1995
No Image
⭐ 0 Role: (archive footage)

Afros, Macks & Zodiacs

1995
⭐ 6.7 Role: Executive

Ultimatum

1994
⭐ 6.5 Role: Executive #4

Stranglehold

1994
⭐ 8.1 Role: Self

Death by Misadventure: The Mysterious Life of Bruce Lee

1993
⭐ 7.9 Role: Self

Bruce Lee, the Legend

1984
⭐ 4.7 Role: Chuck

One Down, Two to Go

1982
⭐ 5.3 Role: Lucas

The Tattoo Connection

1978
⭐ 4.3 Role: Lt. Detective J. Ash

Death Dimension

1978
⭐ 5.9 Role: Unknown

Mr. No Legs

1978