Star Trek and Rush Hour stuntman James Lew dies aged 73
James Lew has died aged 73 after a long career in Hollywood (Picture: Birdie Thompson / Zuma Press / Avalon)
James Lew, a stuntman known for his work on Star Trek and other Hollywood films, has died aged 73.
The news was shared by his wife Jordanna Potter-Lew, who posted an emotional tribute to the star on Instagram.
‘Honey I imagine you walking the beach with Dudley, sparring with Bruce Lee and finally getting to hug your Dad again,’ she penned.
‘James MF Lew you are loved and will be deeply missed. Rest in peace. 8/23/26.’
Lew had faced unspecified health issues recently but no cause of death has been shared by the family.
He’s said to have spent his final days ‘surrounded by friends’ in Los Angeles, where he had lived most of his life.
Lew was remembered for his talent and sense of humour (Picture: Getty)
Over his career, Lew worked on over 140 shows and films, including Inception, Rush Hour, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Star Trek.
In 2017, he won the Emmy Award for outstanding stunt coordination in a drama series for his work on Marvel’s Luke Cage show.
He was also frequently on screen as an actor, one particularly memorable scene saw him parody Rambo in a fight with Charlie Sheen for Hot Shots! Part Deux.
Lew’s list of stunt work spans from comedies like 2008’s Tropic Thunder to blockbusters such as Avengers: Endgame to Nolan’s Inception.
‘My lifelong adventure into the martial arts began when I was 14 years old,’ he once said in an interview. ‘It was part of a natural discovery and curiosity that I decided to “try” training in the martial arts.’
He was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame in 2024 (Picture: Chelsea Lauren/Shutterstock)
In a tribute shared by Black Belt magazine, Lew was described as ‘humble, gracious, funny, passionate and always happy to be surrounded by the martial arts community.’
Meanwhile, bodybuilder Janine Avanti shared a photo of them together and said: ‘You will be missed James. We are so grateful for your talents and love for the Arts and The Screen.
‘You were a great inspiration and warrior. Today we honor you and send prayers to your family for comfort and peace. May you rest in heavenly peace. It was an honor my friend. Godspeed.’
The Big Trouble in Little China choreographer was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2024, having worked in the entertainment industry since the 70s.
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