Read a biography of important events in Bruce Lee’s life using his own words taken from personal letters, press statements, and interviews.
Part 1: Kowloon, Hong Kong (1940-1959)
Part 2: Seattle, Washington (1959-1964)
Part 3: Oakland, California (1964-1966)
Part 4: Los Angeles, California (1966-1970)
Part 5: Pakchong, Thailand (July-August 1971)
Bruce Lee traveled to Thailand film his first Hong Kong film, The Big Boss. Most of the filming is done in the rural village of Pakchong.
Pakchong
Linda,
Bangkok was fine. However, Pakchong is something else. The mosquitoes are terrible and cockroaches are all over the place. Of course, the main reason for not having written is for lack of services, but also, I had a rather nasty accident – as I was washing a super thin glass, my grip broke the damn thing and cut my right hand rather deep – the worst cut I have, that requires ten stitches.
They want me to do a short film on JKD in exchange for your fare. I’m in no condition to do it but I’m sure they won’t want to press the matters because since my arrival, everyone, including the SHAW BRO. are calling and using all means to get me. One thing is for sure, I’m the super star in H.K. H.K. is having a typhoon sweeping over the city and I have yet been able to confirm with Raymond Chow (the boss) on your matter of coming. To call U.S. is out of the question because connection is terrible here.
Meet me in Hong Kong
Linda,
Well what do you think of coming to Hong Kong to join me? As soon as I settle down, we will make the arrangement. In the meantime, find out all the necessary information concerning the requirement of the trip.
The news in Hong Kong has been tremendous, though I have not yet been there. One thing that concerns me is the proper presentation with truth and sincerity, without learning toward sensationalism.
The food in Bangkok is terrible, especially in Pakchong – this village has no beef and very little chicken and pork. Am I glad to come with my vitamins.
I wish you were here because I miss you and the children a lot. The village is terrible, no place like home. I’m looking forward to meeting you in Hong Kong.
15 days in Pakchong
Linda,
It’s been 15 days since my arrival in Pakchong and it seems already like years! Due to lack of meat, I have to get canned meat for lunch. I’m glad I brought along the viatmins.
I miss you a lot but Pakchong is no place for you and the children. It’s an absolute under developed village with a big NOTHING.
The film I’m doing is quite amateur-like. A new director has replaced the uncertain olde one; this new director is another so-so one with and almost unbearable air of superiority.
At any rate, I’m looking forward to leaving Pakchong to Bangkolk, where it is at least halfway decent. Then I’ll fly to Hong Kong and make the necessary arrangements for you people to come over – looking forward to seeing the three of you ver much indeed.
My voice is gone (very hoarse!!) from yelling and talking under really terrible conditions – machine running, ice cutting, etc., etc. Anyway, all hell broke loose here. My back is getting along fair – need a lot of rest after a fight scene.
New Director
Linda,
The shooting is picking up steam and is moving along much better than it was. The new director is no Roman Polanski but as a whole he is a better chooice than our ex-director.
It looks like you will be coming to Hong Kong the beginning part of September – I’ll be looking forward to seeing you at the airport.
Superstar in Hong Kong
Except for rotten hours – day and night shooting, Hong Kong film company is nice to work with.
Wouldn’t it be bad IF Paramount’s deal comes through, I would have to return straight from Bangkok and couldn’t get any toys for my number one son Brandon!
I’m telling you, I’m the superstar in Hong Kong, with separate makeup, special chair, even separate Kleenex – yes. I feel strongly that I really can be the biggest everr in Hong Kong. It needs only careful planning in obtaining it.
When my pictures make a hit in Hong Kong, I’ll start the minimum of (1) $10,000 a picture (2) ten percent interest (3) first-class round trip tickets and rooming for my full family.
Let’s hope everything will move along nicely Bangkok to U.S. and from U.S. our whole family goes to H.K. for 2 1/2 months, Christmas and all.
Yet, it looks like this year is turning to some nice days ahead.
Longstreet
(A) “Longstreet” is such a success that reaction is instantaneous whenever my character comes up.
(B) So Paramount is asking me to reappear and stay as a re-occurrence character.
(C) So that means I MIGHT get a one month leave – after Sept. 5 – and fly back to finish three more shows or whatever and then fly to Hong Kong with you and the kids to finish the second picture (King of Chinese Boxers).
(D) Of course, that means killing two birds with one stone and getting extra bread.
Paramount Offer
Received telegram from Paramount extracted as follows:
Freelance offer for not less than three episodes at one thousand per episode. Each episode not to take more than three days from Sept. 5 to Sept. 30th…1st Class round trip ticket…imperative we hear from you immediately to prepare script for the character you portray.
Well, here is my answer:
My usual two thousand per episode plus quality technical advising. If acceptable can start work from Sept. 7 to Oct. 7. Notify immediately for schedule arrangement.
Really, if Paramount really likes me and if I readlly dis such a good job, I feel I should advance to at least 2 grand per episode, disregard three days or anything.
Let’s face it, my billing isn’t exactly there. Who knows what the future holds? I feel rather definite about this, don’t you? There comes a time when you have to advance or retreat – this time I can always retreat to my Hong Kong deal. At any rate, I have a feeling they would if I am valuable for “Longstreet.”
Should be returning to Thai Hotel by the 17th or so of this month – will let you know, especially if Paramount replies, one way or another.
Big Fight Ending
Anyway, my future in acting has now begun. I’m sure that one I’m doing now will be a big success – again, time will tell.
Tomorrow begins the ending big fight. It will take over three days to shoot – that means we will leave Pakchong around the 17th – I will wire you when I return to Thai Hotel.
Though the place I’m in is utter hell, I’m in the profession where I belong and love to do.
Shaw Brothers
Yes, you and Brandon and Shanon are coming to Hong Kong. Just bring a few nice clothes for arrival and a few days out, for you will have a lot of new clothes made in Hong Kong.
Golden Harvest is terribly shaken now for Shaw Brothers has been calling me and writing me for me to work with them instead. To keep in good term with me, that’s why you are coming.
Bangkok
It’s been raining a little bit here in Bangkok. I hope it won’t hinder our shooting schedule. Two more weeks and I’ll be home. In fact, I’ve made reservations for returning on the 6th of Sept.
Have been shooting nights – from 6:30 to 4 AM. At least Bangkok has more facilities, but the mosquitoes are terrible!
Ankle Sprain
I sprained my ankle rather badly from a high jump on a slipped mattress – which required a drive of two hours to Bangkok to see a doctor – consequently I caught the flu (Bangkok is hot and stuffy and the traffic is a 24 hr. jam). Anyway, with fever, cold, aches and pain, we used close-up while I dragged my leg to finish the last fight.
I feel all right now, except for my ankle and am doing well in Bangkok.
Christmas in Hong Kong
By the way, I feel that with the Paramount deal, we should be able to make it comfortably to Hong Kong. Don’t you think so? Of course, we have to worry about the tax.
In fact, I’m going to ask for an advance from Tannenbaum on “Longstreet.” Looks like we we be spending Christmas in Hong Kong.
If the schedule is on time, I’ll be going to Hong Kong to do a reshooting of a certain scene, which will take around two days. Immediately I’ll be returning home.
Can’t imagine that Shanon is making sentences already – she must be quite big by now. It seems ages since I left. At any rate, you will see my 7th anniversary gift – a his and her present. Should have around one and a half grand with I return – I hope anyway.
When everything works out I think you will enjoy this coming H.K. trip tremendously – I sure hope no mind-wrecking thing comes up.
Part 6: Hong Kong (1971-1973)
Bruce Lee and his family moved to Hong Kong to make films for Golden Harvest. During this time he also made the Warner Brothers movie Enter the Dragon. Warner Brothers studios was run by Ted Ashley.
Proposed television show ‘The Warrior’
Dear Ted,
I have talked to my lawyer Mr. Adrian Marshall about Warner’s proposal. Since we are friends, I have chosen to write you directly.
In addition to our agreement we feel:
(a) that I should have a minimum of 4 months off a year to make features in Hong Kong.
(b) that I should have a participation in
(1) The TV series itself
(2) merchandising.
Shooting is running smoothly here and the last picture I made in Thailand has just been released and is on its way to break all records in Hong Kong – damn the torpedo, full speed ahead!
‘The Warrior’ is rejected
Dear Ted,
I am sorry to hear about the outcome of ‘The Warrior.’ Well, you cannot win them all, but damn it, I am going to win one of these days.
Several things I like to talk with you.
(A) knowing my capability as an actor, plus the ever-increasing mentioning of martial art – which I always feel such “Unique” and exciting film has universal appeal – as well as the China situation, I feel Warner can definitely create a script, preferably for feature, tailored for me.
(B) I have started a film company (Concord) with a trusted friend of mine, and am looking forward very much to work with Warner on some future projects, or maybe Warner can help in releasing our future pictures in the States – like A Fistful of Dollars from Italy.
(C) In my commitment with Warner for “The Warrior” dating from Dec. 71 to Dec. 72, I think I have $25,000 coming to me. Warner can send it to my address….Hong Kong.
Way of the Dragon movie
Now I am preparing to shoot a new film, directed and acted by myself. Its aim is to promote the philosophy of martial arts. I hope that you elder masters can give me more advice and support!
Proposed Movie with Warner Brothers
Dear Ted,
Forgive me for not writing sooner as Fist of Fury, my second film, is being released presently, and is heading toward another all-time record…will confirm “when” the miracle happens.
Regarding our hope of a co-produciton with Warner, Mr. Raymond Chow and I are in the process of choosing carefully among projects that we have.
Financially Secure
Dear Ted,
Presently H.K. will be my base of operations as my films are enjoying “unbelievable” success, breaking all time records one after another.
Though one may say different locales have different tastes; however, “I’m positive” that something similar to what we have discussed prior to my going to H.K. will prove to be a success internationally. After all, action is action, and if Warner develops something specific for me, I’m sure my special brand of action will sock it to them. Of course, my experience in acting has grown considerably since “Longstreet” because I have gained from shouldering the responsibility of plyaing the lead role, plus directing my third film.
According to my partner, Raymond Chow, Aubrey and Netting are coming to H.K. in August to discuss about co-productions – film ventures starring me. Also, an independent, American producer here is in the process of negotiating with me to produce films in English for interntional release.
Financially, I am secure; unheard of offers have been made to me. Ted, I have gone through the interesting experience of being Number One in Mandarin films. Fame and fortune, and I mean by any standards are mine. I would like to feel you wound not interpret this as an ego trip, for after this swift and unexpected adjustment, I have found, after much soul searching, that deep down what I honestly value more than anything else is quality: doing one’s best in the manner of the responsibility and craftsmanship of a Number One.
So Ted, from one human being to another, and I am saying it simply and directly, “I honestly feel that this diligently trained body plus a time tried realistic faith in knowing that I CAN…” will undoubtedly make it and make it in a really big way should this Chinaman get a fair seeing and fair support from someone.
Despite all the privileges, there is one unavoidable frustration: Hong Kong film industry is definitely behind in quality as compared to other leading countries. The way I look at it, and honestly feel it, is that this Chinaman will definitely invade the States in a big way, one way or another. I am sure, if you give this matter a fair and serious thought, something will be worked out to our mutual benefit. Should this project come through, we as good friends, will enjoy it that much more.
Success
Mito
After reading your article on me, I have mixed feelings. To many, the word “success” seems to be a paradise, but now that I’m in the midst of if, it is nothing but circumstances that seem to complicate my innate feeling toward simplicity and privacy.
Yet, whether I like it or not, circumstances are thrust upon me and being a fighter at heart I sort of fight it in the beginning but soon realize what I need is not inner resistance and needles conflict (in the form of dissipation); rather, by joining forces to readjust and make the best of it.
Believe me, this man here is confronting some “real” pressure and needless to say it is easier said than done. After all, fame and fortune are illusive creations and imposters. So hell with it and steering my direction and un[erubedly I try to march on.
Well, my dear friend – lately “friend” has come to be a scarce word, a sickening game of watchfulness toward offered friendships – I miss you and our once simple lunches together and our many joyful communications.
Proposed Movie Tae Kwon Do
Dear Jhoon,
The premier of my new film in Hong Kong has been rescheduled for December 23. Also, I have talked to Mr. Raymond Chow and although a definite ideea has not been formed, I think there is this possibility of making a film entitled Tae Kwon Do
And I think, personally, it will do you a world of good to be the first one to do it and also for public recognition.
Death of a friend
Dear Jon,
James [Lee] was my student, yet he was more a friend. I am glad in one thing though, and this I know, since our friendship we both have benefited from our ups and downs. He was a man and I love him. You understand Jon, I have lost a brother. I, too, respect him with all his faults and good merits.
P.S. He was a fighter. Consider the odds!! He kept blasting!
Meeting with Warner Brothers
Ted,
Nowadays, my offers for doing a film have reached to the point which I guarantee you will both surprise as well as shock you.
Viewing from the angle of efficient practical business sense, I hope we will be fair and square and have mutual trust and confidence – I have had a bad experience doing a picture with some person or organization in Hong Kong. In other words, I was burned once, and didn’t like it.
Without Bruce Lee, I am sure that Warner Bros. will definitely and factually suffer no loss, and vice versa; therefore, and I sincerely mean it, that is from one human being to another, practical business or whatever it is, I sincerely hope that during this meeting, I will find a genuine and truthful friend, Ted Ashley.
Under such circumstances, I sincerely hope that you will open up the geniuses within you and be absolutely fair and square in our transactions. Because of our friendship, I am holding up my money-making time – like ten offers from hungry producers – to look forward to this meeting. You see, Ted, my obsession is to make, pardon the expression, the fuckingest action motion picture that has ever been made.
Way of the Dragon
Ted,
(1) I’m ready for action – preparing several in the meantime, ready to go anytime, anywhere.
(2) I’m sending the Way of the Dragon for you advice whether or not or how it should be released.
All in all, I’m having a burden of nothing to do – raring to go.
Silent Flute
Jim,
Everything is cool here. Spoke to Stirling and I told him that between you and him I’ll thrust our silent flute in your hands.
Might be coming back for the opening. We have that artist who did Dirty Harry and “Mission Impossible,” to score the music for the Warner Brothers picture. Also, another added good news is that we’ll have a summer release at the Chinese Grauman Theater.
Warner Movie to be called Enter the Dragon
Dear Ted,
Do consider carefully in regard to the title of Enter the Dragon.
1. This “unique” dragon (the Chinese, the spiritual, etc.) is not one of those Won Ton Kung Fu flicks from H.K.
2. With the right publicity we can tell on the screen as well as outside that this dragon has broken the all-time record consecutively – like you said, “it comes across.”
I really think this is a good title ad like I said, do think it over carefully because “Enter the Dragon” suggests the emergence of (the entrance) of someone (a personality) this is of quality.
Time is pressing, Ted.
Do please send me the two scripts so I can work it over.
Movie with Shaw Brothers
Dear Run Run,
As of now, consider September, October. & November, a period of three months, reserved for Shaw.
Specific terms will discuss upon my arrival.
Future plans
Dear Adrian,
Will be arriving Los Angeles on August. 3rd, would like to sit down and hope you can leave open the weekend of Aug. 4th to 5th to discuss the following:
1/ the deal with Hanna Barbera
2/Warner’s proposition
3/ Titana from Italy
4/ Andy’s proposition from H.K. which I will explain to you when I see you in person.
All in all, it will be a hectic schedule with television shows, United Press interview, etc., spending one week in LA and leaving on Aug. 18th to New York for another week of publicity, maybe “Johnny Carson Show” ad so forth, etc. And then, my publicity tour will officially end on August. 24th and on Aug. 25th I will meet Linda in LA, ready to come back to H.K. hopefully in one piece.
Also, I would like to meet with you first before meeting with Raymond Chow and then both of us will hear him out. By the way, there are also other propositions of books, clothing, endorsements, etc. At any rate, I will talk to you personally when I see you.
Death
Lee first collapsed in Hong Kong on May 10th, 1973 while working 30 minutes in a hot dubbing room. He was taken to a nearby hospital and found to have a cerebral edema. He was given the drug Mannitol which reduced the swelling and he regained consciousness two and a half hours later. He then traveled to the U.S. to see a specialist who said he had a seizure with no apparent cause (Life, pages 425-428).
His second and final collapse was on July 20, 1973. He was rehearsing fight scenes and felt faint, dizzy, and complained of a severe headache. He laid down to rest but never recovered. His body was taken to the hospital where they pronounced him dead due to another cerebral edema (Life, pages 473-474).
Life Flows Like Water
In life there are pluses and minuses, and it is time for you to concentrate on the pluses. It might be difficult but fortunately for us human beings, we have self-will. Well, it is time to employ it.
Life is an ever-flowing process and somewhere on the path some unpleasant things will pop up – it might leave a scar, but then life is flowing on and like running water, when it stops, it grows stale. Go bravely on, my friend, because each experience teaches us a lesson, and remember, if there is anything at all I can help with, let me know.
Keep blasting because James Lee did, and life is such that sometimes it is nice and sometimes it is not.
Resources:
Letters of the Dragon: The Original 1958-1973 Correspondence, John Little, Editor, Tuttle Publishing, 1998, 2016. Volume 5 of the Bruce Lee Library, commissioned by the Bruce Lee Estate. Letters to friends, family, and business associates. Put together by John Little, Bruce Lee historian.
Jeet Kune Do: A Comprehensive Guide to Bruce Lee’s Martial Way, John Little, Editor, Tuttle Publishing, 1997, 2020. Volume 3 of the Bruce Lee Library. Excellent and detailed description of Bruce Lee’s martial art before he passed. Put together by John Little, Bruce Lee historian.
Words of the Dragon: Interviews, 1958-1973, John Little, Editor, Tuttle Publishing, 1997, 2017. Volume 1 of the Bruce Lee Library, commissioned by the Bruce Lee Estate. Interview transcripts of Bruce Lee on a variety of topics including philosophy, martial arts, and his personal life. Put together by John Little, Bruce Lee historian.
The life and tragic death of Bruce Lee, aka The Man Only I Knew, Linda Lee Caldwell, Author, Star Books Publisher, 1975. Biography written by Bruce Lee’s wife. It is rare and more expensive than others.
Bruce Lee: A Life, Matthew Polly, Author, Simon & Schuster Publishing, 2019. Highly rated biography of Bruce Lee.
Seattle NCGF website.
James Yimm Lee, Wikipedia.
U.S. Flag Icon, dcwareproducts.com.
Water Icon, iconfinder.com.
Switzerland Flag Icon, Flaticon.com.
India flag Icon, Flaticon.com.
Thailand flag icon, Flaticon.com.
AI Narration provided by elevenlabs.io. Bruce Lee quotes read by AI.
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