“Just a Character Appearance:” Jackie Chan Shares Update Amid Health Concerns
Jackie Chan is assuring fans that he’s doing well after his photos with gray hair went viral on X last month. He looked much older than his age, sparking concerns about the state of his health.
The good news is—he’s doing just fine!
The star took to Instagram on Sunday to address his fans’ concerns while celebrating his 70th birthday, saying that his older appearance is just him in character.
“Not so long ago, a lot of friends saw some recent photos of me on the internet, and they were all concerned about my health,” Chan wrote in the caption. “I want to take this opportunity to let everyone know, don’t worry! It’s just a character appearance for my latest movie. The character requires me to have white hair, white beard and look old.”
The iconic actor continued, “Over the years, I’ve always been willing to try new things for a movie, no matter if it’s a challenging stunt or a breakthrough appearance for a character”.
“All I can say is: I love making movies and I love you all. A big thank you to everyone for all your birthday wishes. Hope everyone stays happy and healthy!”, he concluded.
Chan also took a stroll down memory lane by sharing a series of throwback pictures throughout his career.
“Even before today, many friends have been reminding me: ‘Jackie, it’s going to be your 70th birthday!’” Chan added. “Every time I hear this number, my heart would stop for a second—I’m 70 years old already?”
The stunt legend then quoted his “big brother” Sammo Hung, a martial artist and fight choreographer. “Being able to grow old is a fortunate thing,” he said.
The actor has yet to share details about the role that required the wizened look. And, for the life of us, it’s difficult to guess as he has 5 movies in the works.
These include Home Operation (inspired by the real events of the emergency evacuation of Chinese citizens and foreign nationals from Yemen during the 2015 civil war), the action-thriller Five Against a Bullet, and Jackie Chan: Down to Earth (a documentary that looks back at his body of work over four decades). Fans should also expect his voiceover work in Once Upon a Zodiac.
In addition, the martial arts legend is set to reprise his role as Mr. Han in the upcoming installment of Karate Kid, scheduled for release towards the end of 2024. It brings back Ralph Macchio Jr. who originally played Daniel LaRusso in the first three Karate Kid films.
After his reassuring post, the Rush Hour star received an outpouring of love and greetings, with a dedicated post by Oscar-winning actor Will Smith. Smith shared some crazy behind-the-scenes footage of his son Jaden Smith’s 2010 movie with Chan and a sweet message:
“In addition to making some of my FAVORITE movies of all time, creating some of the CRAZIEST moments that have ever been captured on film—I thank you most for helpin’ to raise Jaden. Our time with you in Beijing during the Karate Kid left an eternal impact on our entire family. We wish you the deepest Love & Revelation on your next trip around the sun.”
