James Lew, a renowned stuntman and actor known for his work on Star Trek, Rush Hour and Inception, has died at the age of 73. His wife, Jordanna Potter-Lew, announced the news on Instagram, posting an emotional tribute to the late star.
In her post, she wrote: '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. Rest in peace. 8/23/26.'
Lew had faced unspecified health issues recently, but no cause of death has been shared by the family. He is said to have spent his final days 'surrounded by friends' in Los Angeles, where he had lived for most of his life.
Career spanning over 140 shows and films
Over his career, Lew worked on more than 140 shows and films, including Inception, Rush Hour, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Star Trek. In 2017, he won the Emmy Award for outstanding stunt coordination in a drama series for his work on Marvel's Luke Cage.
Lew was also frequently on screen as an actor. One particularly memorable scene saw him parody Rambo in a fight with Charlie Sheen in Hot Shots! Part Deux. His stunt work spans from comedies like Tropic Thunder to blockbusters such as Avengers: Endgame and Nolan's Inception.
Tributes from the martial arts community
Lew's lifelong passion for martial arts began at a young age. 'My lifelong adventure into the martial arts began when I was 14 years old,' he once said in an interview. 'It was part of a natural discovery and curiosity that I decided to "try" training in the martial arts.'
In a tribute shared by Black Belt magazine, Lew was described as 'humble, gracious, funny, passionate and always happy to be surrounded by the martial arts community.' Bodybuilder Janine Avanti also paid tribute, sharing a photo of them together and saying: 'You will be missed James. We are so grateful for your talents and love for the Arts and The Screen. You were a great inspiration and warrior. Today we honor you and send prayers to your family for comfort and peace. May you rest in heavenly peace. It was an honor my friend. Godspeed.'
Legacy and induction into Hall of Fame
The Big Trouble in Little China choreographer was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2024, having worked in the entertainment industry since the 70s. His death marks the loss of a pioneering figure in stunt work and martial arts on screen.
