
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.

Highway to Heaven
TV • 1984

Enter the Dragon
MOVIE • 1973

Death Dimension
MOVIE • 1978

Bruce Lee: The Legend
MOVIE • 1984

Top Fighter
MOVIE • 1995

The Tattoo Connection
MOVIE • 1978

Afro Ninja
MOVIE • 2009

Stranglehold
MOVIE • 1994

Macked, Hammered, Slaughtered and Shafted
MOVIE • 2004

Three the Hard Way
MOVIE • 1974

Black Belt Jones
MOVIE • 1974

Melinda
MOVIE • 1972

BaadAsssss Cinema
MOVIE • 2002

Golden Needles
MOVIE • 1974

Hot Potato
MOVIE • 1976

One Down, Two to Go
MOVIE • 1982

Take a Hard Ride
MOVIE • 1975

Mr. No Legs
MOVIE • 1978