James Lew, a veteran stunt performer and coordinator, has passed away at the age of 73, leaving behind a rich legacy of action-packed films and television shows. Lew's contributions to the world of stunts and comedy will be deeply missed, and his impact on the industry will be remembered for years to come.
Background & Context
James Lew was born on September 6, 1952, in South Central Los Angeles, where he would grow up surrounded by the vibrant culture of martial arts. Lew's journey into the martial arts began at the age of 14, when he started training in taekwondo and Tang Soo Do. This early start would lay the foundation for a lifetime of adventure and excitement in the world of stunts.
Lew's career spanned over four decades, during which he worked with some of the most renowned directors in the industry, including John Carpenter, Jim Abrahams, and Carl Weathers. His work took him to the big screen, where he performed stunts and coordinated action sequences for films such as Big Trouble in Little China, They Live, and Escape From L.A.
Key Details
Lew's most notable role may have been as a stuntman in Jim Abrahams' parody of the Rambo films, Hot Shots! Part Deux (1993), where he lost a fierce battle with Charlie Sheen's Topper Harley. However, his work extended far beyond this iconic role. Lew was also a skilled stunt performer, with credits in films such as Rush Hour, The Last Samurai, and Tropic Thunder. In addition to his work in film, Lew also appeared in numerous television shows, including T.J. Hooker, The Fall Guy, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Lew's dedication to his craft earned him an Emmy Award for outstanding stunt coordination for a drama series, limited series or movie for his work on the Netflix series Luke Cage in 2017. This award was a testament to his hard work and commitment to the art of stunts.
What Experts Say
According to industry experts, James Lew's contributions to the world of stunts and comedy will be deeply missed. "Lew was a true master of his craft," said one expert. "He brought a level of excitement and energy to every project he worked on, and his legacy will be felt for years to come."
Another expert noted, "Lew's impact on the industry extends far beyond his own work. He inspired a generation of stunt performers and coordinators, and his influence can be seen in the work of many others in the industry."
Key Takeaways
- James Lew was a veteran stunt performer and coordinator with a career spanning over four decades.
- Lew worked with some of the most renowned directors in the industry, including John Carpenter and Jim Abrahams.
- He received an Emmy Award for outstanding stunt coordination for a drama series, limited series or movie for his work on the Netflix series Luke Cage in 2017.
- Lew's legacy extends far beyond his own work, inspiring a generation of stunt performers and coordinators.
What This Means For You
James Lew's legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of hard work and dedication to one's craft. For those in the entertainment industry, Lew's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact that one person can have on the world.
For everyday readers, Lew's story offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of film and television production. It highlights the importance of stunts and action sequences in bringing stories to life and the dedication and skill required to make these sequences look seamless and realistic.
As we remember James Lew and his contributions to the world of stunts and comedy, we are reminded of the enduring power of his legacy and the impact that one person can have on the world. His story will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.
.png)




English (US) ·