Eleven thespians, proficient in martial arts, known for their action-packed roles.
Dynamic Martial Arts Legends
Martial arts haven't just entertained us with action-packed movies, they've also gifted us legendary heroes who showcased their skill both on and off the screen. Here's a list of actors and martial artists, some you might not expect, who have left their mark in Hollywood.
Unveiling the Unexpected: Taylor LautnerYes, that's right! Taylor Lautner is more than just a heartthrob from the Twilight series. This guy has transformed himself and transcended his teen symbol status. With a black belt in karate, Taylor has demonstrated his martial arts prowess on various ESPN networks before getting discovered by Robert Rodriguez to be Sharkboy.
If you think Taylor is all glitz and glam now, think again. He's sporting a new look to break free of his teenage past, starring in shows like Cuckoo. For a taste of his martial arts humor, catch his sketch on Saturday Night Live where he dishes out martial arts retribution.
Image credit: AP Photo/Chris Pizzello
Powerhouse Martial Arts Master: Jason David Frank
No list of martial artist actors would be complete without a Power Ranger. Jason David Frank, who played Tommy Oliver, possesses a 7th-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate, and has also trained in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He's been competing in the MMA world as well and is known for developing an eclectic martial arts discipline called Toso Kune Do.
Whether you're a fan of the Power Rangers or not, it's hard to deny the martial arts badassery that Jason David Frank exudes.
Image credit: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Neil Davidson
Ninja Pioneer: Sho Kosugi
Sho Kosugi was a pioneer in the world of ninja cinema. His badass portrayal of a ninja in films like Ninja III: The Domination earned him legendary status in the '80s. Kosugi was an incredible fighter and weapons expert, who could pull off practical stunts and in-camera tricks like a boss.
If you're looking for a fun, cheesy dose of '80s ninja action, give Ninja III: The Domination a watch. You won't regret it.
Screenshot via Cannon Film Distributors
…And the list continues with action stars like Michael Dudikoff, Steven Seagal, Jackie Chan, Jet Li, Wesley Snipes, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Chuck Norris, and the iconic Bruce Lee. Each of these martial arts masters has left an indelible impact on action cinema.
Want to know more about these legends? Stay tuned, as we delve deeper into their martial arts backgrounds and their remarkable journeys to stardom.
Enrichment Data:- Taylor Lautner started martial arts training at the age of six and had become a black belt by eight. He went on to win three gold medals in the Junior World Championships.- Jason David Frank is an expert in Shotokan Karate and is also trained in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He started training martial arts at a very early age and even taught other kids by the time he was 18.- Sho Kosugi was a pioneer in the world of movie ninjas in the '80s, and his badass portrayals of a ninja made him a household name during that period.
Celebrities like Taylor Lautner and Jason David Frank have showcased their martial arts skills on ESPN networks and in MMA competitions, venturing into the realm of sports-analysis. Additionally, sports enthusiasts may be surprised to learn that Sho Kosugi, a ninja cinema icon, was an exceptional weapons expert and stunt performer, making him a pioneer in the crossover between entertainment and sport-focused martial arts.
