Jim Kelly
ActingAlso Known As
James Milton Kelly
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.
Movies
(23 total)
Enter the Dragon
as Williams
Bruce Lee: The Legend
as Self
Black Belt Jones
as Black Belt Jones
Take a Hard Ride
as Kashtok
Black Samurai
as Robert Sand
Three the Hard Way
as Mister Keyes
Death Dimension
as Lt. Detective J. Ash
BaadAsssss Cinema
as Self
Hot Potato
as Jones
One Down, Two to Go
as Chuck
Golden Needles
as Jeff
The Tattoo Connection
as Lucas
Top Fighter
as Self
Afro Ninja
as Cleavon Washington
Stranglehold
as Executive #4
Kings of Cult
as (archive footage)
Melinda
as Charles Atkins
Ultimatum
as Executive
TV Shows
(1 total)
Highway to Heaven
as Reporter