
Jim Kelly
Known for acting · Born 5 May 1946 · Died 29 June 2013 · aged 67 · Paris, Kentucky, USA
26 credits
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.
Known for

Enter the Dragon
1973

Black Belt Jones
1974

Black Samurai
1976

Three the Hard Way
1974

Death Dimension
1978

The Tattoo Connection
1978

Take a Hard Ride
1975

One Down, Two to Go
1982

Hot Potato
1976

Death by Misadventure: The Mysterious Life of Bruce Lee
1993

Top Fighter
1995

Golden Needles
1974