1946-05-05 ( 78 years old ) in Paris, Kentucky, USA
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.
Movies
Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror
2019-02-07
Kings of Cult
2015-09-02
Afro Ninja
2009-01-01
Macked, Hammered, Slaughtered and Shafted
2004-12-31
The 50 Worst Movies Ever Made
2004-07-13
BaadAsssss Cinema
2002-08-14
Bruce Lee: In His Own Words
1998-07-01
Top Fighter
1995-06-15
Afros, Macks & Zodiacs
1995-01-01
Ultimatum
1994-02-23
Stranglehold
1994-01-01
Bruce Lee: The Legend
1984-01-01
One Down, Two to Go
1982-11-19
The Tattoo Connection
1978-07-27
Death Dimension
1978-07-01
Mr. No Legs
1978-05-01
Black Samurai
1976-12-22
Hot Potato
1976-04-09
Take a Hard Ride
1975-10-29
Golden Needles
1974-07-17
Three the Hard Way
1974-06-26
Black Belt Jones
1974-01-28
Enter the Dragon
1973-08-17
Location: Hong Kong with Enter the Dragon
1973-08-01
Melinda
1972-08-06
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