Jim 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.

Known For

Enter the Dragon

as Williams

Highway to Heaven

as Reporter

Bruce Lee: The Legend

as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)

Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror

as Self (archive footage)

Black Belt Jones

as Black Belt Jones

Black Samurai

as Robert Sand

Take a Hard Ride

as Kashtok

Three the Hard Way

as Mister Keyes

The 50 Worst Movies Ever Made

as Black Belt Jones (archive footage)

Death Dimension

as Lt. Detective J. Ash