Jim Kelly
ActingAbout Jim Kelly
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.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Jim Kelly reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 22 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Action
The majority of Jim Kelly's filmography leans towards the Action genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 14% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Jim Kelly remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Death by Misadventure: The Mysterious Life of Bruce Lee, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Jim Kelly Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Jim Kelly's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Jim Kelly.
Jim Kelly - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Jim Kelly?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Jim Kelly is "Death by Misadventure: The Mysterious Life of Bruce Lee" with a rating of 8.1/10.
How many movies has Jim Kelly acted in?
Jim Kelly has been featured in at least 22 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Jim Kelly?
Other notable films include "Kings of Cult", "Enter the Dragon", and "Top Fighter".