Cheng Pei-pei, Martial Arts Icon and ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’ Star, Passes Away at 78
Cheng Pei-pei, the groundbreaking Chinese actress celebrated as the “Queen of Swords” and recognized as one of the earliest female action stars, has died peacefully at the age of 78. She passed away at her home on July 17. Her family shared the news in a statement on Facebook, disclosing that she had been struggling with a rare neurodegenerative condition known as corticobasal degeneration (CBD) since 2019.
In their statement, the family conveyed their deep sorrow, saying, “With a heavy heart, we confirm that the rumors are indeed true. Our beloved mother, Cheng Pei-pei, passed away peacefully at her home on July 17, surrounded by her family and loved ones.” They continued, “Our mother wished to be remembered as she truly was: the iconic Queen of Martial Arts.”
Cheng Pei-pei’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, during which she left an indelible imprint on the film industry. She initially gained prominence in the 1960s with Shaw Brothers Studios, a renowned Hong Kong production company celebrated for its action-packed films and wuxia (martial arts) epics. Cheng appeared in 20 films produced by Shaw Brothers, including the legendary titles Come Drink With Me, Princess Iron Fan, and Golden Swallow. Her role as Golden Swallow in Come Drink With Me not only showcased her exceptional talent as an action star but also cemented her status as a significant figure in the history of Chinese cinema.
Cheng Pei-pei’s career breakthrough occurred with the 1966 film Come Drink With Me, directed by King Hu. The film is renowned for its captivating fight choreography, an area where Cheng thrived thanks to her dance training. In 1968, she returned to her role in Golden Swallow, but the production was troubled by creative disagreements with director Chang Cheh, who held traditional views regarding women in action roles.
Born in Shanghai in 1946, Cheng Pei-pei relocated to Hong Kong in 1962, marking the start of her career with Shaw Brothers Studios. Although she initially trained in dance and was initially prepared for roles in Chinese opera films, the studio’s transition towards action genres led her to undergo rigorous martial arts training. This training encompassed skills such as swordplay, knife techniques, and horse riding, which would become defining elements of her performances in wuxia cinema.
Following a highly active period in Hong Kong cinema, Cheng Pei-pei’s career slowed down during the 1980s as she relocated to the United States. However, she made a notable return to the spotlight in 2000 with her role in Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Her performance as the antagonist Jade Fox garnered her widespread international recognition. The film achieved remarkable success, winning four Academy Awards and receiving critical acclaim worldwide.