Jackie Chan is making headlines again in 2025—not for the reasons internet rumors might suggest, but for a triumphant return to cinema, a prestigious lifetime achievement award, and a very public debunking of yet another viral death hoax.
Death Hoaxes Go Viral—But Jackie Chan Is Alive and Thriving
If you’ve scrolled through social media lately, you may have seen alarming posts claiming that Jackie Chan, the legendary martial artist and actor, has passed away. These rumors, which spread rapidly across X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, alleged that Chan died from complications related to old on-set injuries, even citing supposed confirmations from his family. But let’s set the record straight:
Jackie Chan is alive and well at 71.
This isn’t the first time Chan has been the subject of such hoaxes. In fact, he’s addressed similar rumors in the past, once joking, “If I died, I would probably tell the world!” Fans and news outlets have been quick to debunk the latest wave of misinformation, urging people to verify before sharing sensational claims.
A New Chapter: “Karate Kid: Legends” Hits Theaters
While the internet was busy spreading false news, Jackie Chan was busy walking red carpets. In May 2025, Chan appeared in London and New York for the global premiere of
Karate Kid: Legends, the highly anticipated sequel that reunites him with Ralph Macchio and introduces Ben Wang as kung fu prodigy Li Fong. The film, now showing in theaters, follows Li as he navigates a new life in New York, blending kung fu and karate under the mentorship of Chan and Macchio’s characters for an epic martial arts showdown.
Fans and critics alike are celebrating Chan’s return to the big screen, praising his enduring charisma and the film’s fresh take on the beloved franchise.
Honored with the Pardo alla Carriera Award
Adding to his list of accolades, Jackie Chan will be honored with the
Pardo alla Carriera (Leopard Award) at the Locarno Film Festival in August 2025. This lifetime achievement award recognizes artists whose work has redefined cinema and inspired generations. The festival’s organizers describe Chan as a “personality whose artistic contributions have redefined cinema and collective imagination”.
Philanthropy and Global Influence
Beyond the silver screen, Chan continues to make a difference. Forbes recently named him one of the world’s ten most generous celebrities, highlighting his extensive charitable work alongside the likes of Bono and Angelina Jolie. Chan’s commitment to education and disaster relief has made him a beloved figure far beyond Hollywood.
What’s Next for Jackie Chan?
With
Karate Kid: Legends drawing crowds and a major festival honor on the horizon, Jackie Chan shows no signs of slowing down. He remains a global icon, celebrated for his unique blend of action, comedy, and heart—and, as recent events prove, he’s very much alive and kicking.
Takeaway: Don’t believe everything you read online—especially when it comes to celebrity death rumors. Jackie Chan is not only alive but thriving, continuing to inspire fans worldwide with his talent, generosity, and resilience.
Sources
1. News
2. Jackie Chan
3. Latest News of Jackie Chan
4. Celebrity, ageing and Jackie Chan: middle-aged Asian in ...
5. Jackie Chan death rumors debunked: 71-year-old actor ...
6. How Old Is Jackie Chan
7. Jackie Chan (成龍): Latest News and Updates
8. Jackie Chan The Best Of Inside Kung Fu
9. Jackie Chan Death Hoax: Here's the truth behind viral ...
10. THE READIN OF SMP Prese USE OF NA NG COMPR P ...
11. Jackie Chan - latest news, breaking stories and comment
12. Vanguard (2020) - News
13. Speak with Confidence
14. Chinese Stardom in Participatory Cyberculture
