Jackie Chan Retires from Action Role: "I Am Really Tired," Says Actor
Martial arts legendary actor Jackie Chan has announced that he will retire as an action star. The 58-year-old announced that he was too old for stunts now, saying he feels "really, really tired."
And after making over 100 films, Chan should be tired! The actor spoke at the launch of his new production Chinese Zodiac, at the Cannes Film Festival, and said that the latest movie would be his last action film. He said: 'This is my last action film. I am not young any more. I am really, really tired."
He also said that, although he loves fighting and action, the increasing violence in today's world has put him off from making such movies. "The world is too violent right now. It's a dilemma - I love fighting. I like action. but I don't like violence. I want the audience to know I am not just about fighting. I can also act."
"I don't just want to be an action star ... I want to be a true actor. I want to be an Asian Robert De Niro," he said.
Chan continued: "I want to get rid of my image. So, for the last ten years I've done other films like 'The Karate Kid' where I'd rather play an old man. I want the audience to know I'm not just about fighting or comedy, also I can act.
Chan will not be completely out of the picture. Although he will retire from action roles, he will continue to act. "I don't just want to be an action star, I want to be a true actor. I want to get rid of my image. I want the audience to know also I'm not only a comedian. I can act. Day by day, year by year, I'm going to show you the real Jackie Chan."
Chan was born in Hong Kong and gained popularity after featuring in "Snake in the Eagle's Shadow" in 1978. Since then, he has appeared in countless action movies, both in Hollywood and abroad. He also lent his voice in Kung Fu Panda as "Master Monkey". His latest film featured at the 65th Cannes Film Festival is, "Chinese Zodiac".
Jackie Chan received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and has received worldwid recognition for his contribution to film as an actor, stuntman and director.
