The legendary martial artist and actor Jackie Chan has captivated audiences around the world with his unique blend of martial art and comic timing. After making a name for himself among Asian audiences, he tried his luck in the Western film industry as well. Although he is highly popular all around the world now, it was not very easy for the Hong Kong actor to make his way into Hollywood.
According to his autobiography, Never Grow Up, the actor was highly disappointed after he failed in his initial attempts to make a name for himself in Hollywood. He became so determined to achieve stardom in Hollywood, it even led him to ignore his mentor and godfather’s advice.
Jackie Chan Refused to Follow His Godfather’s Advice
In his autobiography, Never Grow Up, Jackie Chan talks about his godfather, Leonard Ho, a Hong Kong-based producer, who supported him in his initial days as a stuntman. While it was not easy for him to initiate his acting journey in Hollywood, he had his godfather to guide him.
However, he once refused to follow up with his advice after failing several attempts to get an opportunity in the film industry. Chan mentions in his book that he decided to return to Hong Kong after trying and failing multiple times.
“When my earliest ventures in America were unsuccessful, I felt defeated and returned to Hong Kong hoping to wipe the slate clean.”
However, Leonard Ho advised him otherwise and told him to take some time off and hang out with friends. After the Rush Hour star ignored Ho’s advice, he told him, “I hope one day you understand that life is not only about work but there are more important things to care about.” Chan shared that he understood the meaning behind Ho’s advice and the importance of balancing his professional and personal life.
Leonard Ho’s Advice that Got Jackie Chan in Trouble
Jackie Chan shared that his godfather Leonard Ho was always there for him and advised him about his hairstyle, finding a house, and helping him to learn from his failures and get up again. However, one of his pieces of advice got him into trouble. The Police Story actor opted for long hair to have a unique look for himself.
Leonard Ho also advised him to maintain the hairstyle. However, that did not work in his favor, as people started assuming that he was a thug due to his long hair. In his book, he shared that he was once questioned by police, who did not realize that he was from Hong Kong, and he was called in for interrogation by the local cops.
Source: Never Grow Up
