On this episode, we celebrate the incredible life and career of Leo Fong, a man who lived and breathed action — both on and off the screen. A kung fu Grand Master, Methodist minister, and filmmaker, Leo’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and heart. Born in Arkansas during the 1930s, he faced racial prejudice early in life, which sparked his lifelong fascination with self-defense and personal empowerment. He began his journey in boxing before evolving into martial arts, where he trained under masters in judo and kung fu, eventually becoming a close friend and sparring partner to Bruce Lee. His time with Bruce profoundly shaped his philosophy on life and martial arts: “The ultimate is inside of you,” Bruce once told him — a lesson that became Leo’s lifelong mantra.
Leo’s film career began unexpectedly when a producer in the Philippines asked if he wanted to star in an action movie. That film, Murder in the Orient, launched him into decades of martial arts filmmaking, including cult hits like Kill Point, Low Blow, and Blood Street. Working alongside icons like Cameron Mitchell, Richard Lynch, and Richard Norton, Leo became known for his gritty, heartfelt approach to action cinema. He not only starred in but also wrote and produced his own films, often raising funds independently and distributing them himself. His stories from set — whether buying his hero car for $125 or stuffing a fake head with hamburger meat for a fight scene — reveal the humor, hustle, and passion that defined his career.
Leo Fong leaves behind more than a legacy of martial arts and movies; he leaves a philosophy rooted in humility, integrity, and joy. To him, filmmaking and martial arts were never about ego but about community, creativity, and the pursuit of truth through action. As he said near the end of our conversation, “We’re all family in the martial arts. Better to make friends than enemies — and always have fun while you’re at it.”
Please enjoy my conversation with Leo Fong.
