Jim Kelly
Acting
Biography
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.
Filmography 25
Movies (24)
Kings of Cult2015(archive footage)
Afro Ninja2009Cleavon Washington
Macked, Hammered, Slaughtered and Shafted2004Self
BaadAsssss Cinema2002Self
The Unbeatable Bruce Lee2001
Top Fighter1995Self- Afros, Macks & Zodiacs1995(archive footage)
Ultimatum1994Executive
Stranglehold1994Executive #4
Death by Misadventure: The Mysterious Life of Bruce Lee1993Self
Bruce Lee, the Legend1984Self
One Down, Two to Go1982Chuck
The Tattoo Connection1978Lucas
Death Dimension1978Lt. Detective J. Ash
Mr. No Legs1978
Black Samurai1976Robert Sand
Hot Potato1976Jones
Take a Hard Ride1975Kashtok
Golden Needles1974Jeff
Three the Hard Way1974Mister Keyes
Black Belt Jones1974Black Belt Jones
Enter the Dragon1973Williams
Location: Hong Kong with Enter the Dragon1973Self
Melinda1972Charles Atkins
