Jackie Chan Tears Up When Asked About Potential Successors; Says There’s None ‘Cos Only Good-Looking Actors Are In Demand

Martial arts superstar Jackie Chan got choked up with emotion in a recent interview, when the topic of potential successors to his legacy got brought up.

The 68-year-old, who is currently promoting his new movie, Ride On, was first asked for his thoughts on the declining number of new action stars in recent years.

“I used to really want to find a second Jackie Chan but it’s very difficult,” he admitted, adding that if there is no demand for these action stars, it doesn’t matter how good they are in martial arts 'cos they won’t succeed anyway.

He went on to share that the industry only wants good-looking actors, and that it doesn’t matter if these actors can’t do action scenes, or even act. As long as they are attractive and have sufficient popularity, all they need to do is to stand at a corner and watch the stunt actors risk their lives for their scenes.

“For those who are good at martial arts, is there a boss out there who’s willing to find a good director, and fork out 50 to 60mil yuan (S$11mil to S$9mil) to produce a movie [for them]?” Jackie went on to ask, before answering his own question with a very emphatic: “They won’t.”

Jackie appeared to pause for a second with tears welling up in his eyes.

He went on to share that he feels distressed about the state of action stars, and expressed his hope for their efforts to be recognised. 

He added that he looks forward to the second coming of the golden era of action films.

Jackie rose to fame in the ‘80s for his signature slapstick action-comedy films, and has been hailed as one of the most popular action film stars of all time.

Photos: Ride On/Douyin, Jackie Chan/Instagram