Martial arts actresses
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- Make-Up Department
Tanit Phoenix was born on 24 September 1980 in Durban, Natal, South Africa. She is an actress, known for Gallowwalkers (2012), Death Race 2 (2010) and Hardcore Henry (2015). She has been married to Sharlto Copley since 15 February 2016. They have one child.Muay Thai, Tai Chi
also enjoys skydiving, scuba diving, bungee jumping, mountain biking, ballet, and horseback riding- Actress
- Director
- Producer
Born to immigrants in New York City, Lucy Liu has always tried to balance an interest in her cultural heritage with a desire to move beyond a strictly Asian-American experience. Her mother, Cecilia, a biochemist, is from Beijing & her father, Tom Liu, a civil engineer, is from Shanghai. Once relegated to "ethnic" parts, the energetic actress is finally earning her stripes as an across-the-board leading lady.
She graduated from Stuyvesant High School in 1986 & enrolled in NYU. However, she was discouraged by the dark and sarcastic atmosphere, so she transferred to the University of Michigan after her freshman year. She graduated w/ a degree in Asian Languages & Cultures, managing to squeeze in some additional training in dance, voice, fine arts & acting. During her senior year, she auditioned for a small part in a production of Alice in Wonderland and walked away with the lead. Encouraged by the experience, she decided to take the plunge into professional acting. She moved to L.A., splitting her time between auditions & food service day jobs. She eventually scored a guest appearance as a waitress on Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990). That performance led to more walk-on parts in shows like NYPD Blue (1993), ER (1994) & The X-Files (1993). In 1996, she was cast as an ambitious college student on Rhea Perlman's ephemeral sitcom Pearl (1996).
She first appeared on the big screen as an ex-girlfriend in Jerry Maguire (1996) (she had previously filmed a scene in the indie Bang (1995), but it was shelved for 2 years). She then waded through a series of supporting parts in small films before landing her big break on Ally McBeal (1997). She initially auditioned for the role of Nelle Porter, which went to Portia de Rossi. However, writer-producer David E. Kelley was so impressed w/ her that he promised to write a part for her in an upcoming episode. The part turned out to be that of growling, ill-tempered lawyer Ling Woo, which she filled w/ such aplomb that she was signed on as a regular cast member.
The "Ally" win gave her film career a much-needed boost-in 1999, she was cast as a dominatrix in the Mel Gibson action flick Payback (1999) & as a hitchhiker in the ill-received boxing saga Play It to the Bone (1999). The following year brought even larger roles: first as the kidnapped Princess Pei Pei in Jackie Chan's western Shanghai Noon (2000), then as one-third of the comely crime-fighting trio in Charlie's Angels (2000).
When she's not hissing at clients or throwing well-coiffed punches, she keeps busy w/ an eclectic mix of off-screen hobbies. She practices the martial art of Kali-Eskrima-Silat (knife-and-stick fighting), skis, rock climbs, rides horses &plays the accordion. In 1993, she exhibited a collection of multimedia art pieces at the Cast Iron Gallery in SoHo (New York), after which she won a grant to study & create art in China. Her hectic schedule doesn't leave much time for romantic intrigue, but she says she prefers to keep that side of her life uncluttered.Silat, Escrima
studied under Dan Inosanto- Actress
- Producer
- Director
Cynthia Rothrock is a martial arts expert and athlete, who went on to become a film actress, starring in a number of highly successful martial arts action movies. She first made a name as an action actress in Hong Kong before going on to wow audiences in her home turf. At the time of her popularity, she was well-known as the "Queen of Martial Arts films".
Cynthia Rothrock is the World Champion in martial arts Forms and Weapons (1981-1985). Her goal was to be undefeated and retire after five years. With over 100 competitions, she holds the undefeated worldwide record in martial arts Forms competition. In weapons competition, Cynthia is the first and only woman to win number one in North America against the men-at that time, women had to compete with the men. She holds five Black Belts with a rank of 8th Dan Grandmaster.
Upon completing her goal of being undefeated in competition, she began her martial arts acting career starring in movies produced and filmed in Hong Kong. Her first movie, Yes, Madam alongside Michelle Yeoh, broke box office records making her a massive star in Hong Kong. After three years of living in Hong Kong, finishing seven films, she returned to the United States to continue her acting career. Today she has starred in over 60 movies.
Rothrock has been a role model for women in martial arts and film. She made history by becoming the inaugural woman to grace the cover of Karate Illustrated (August 1981) and holds the distinction of being the first woman featured on the cover three times in the magazine's history.
In March 2024, Black Belt Magazine named Rothrock number one in its list of "The Most Influential Women Martial Artists on the Planet.". Rothrock is a proud inductee into the prestigious Black Belt Hall of Fame, along with Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. In 2016 she was the first martial artist (male or female) to be inducted into the prestigious International Sports Hall of Fame by Arnold Schwarzenegger and Dr. Robert Goldman.Tang Soo Do (6th Dan), Tae Kwon Do, Eagle Claw, Wushu, Northern Shaolin, Pai Lum (black belts in all disciplines; 5-time World Champion in Weapons & Forms; Black Belt Hall of Fame entry)
remains the only Weapons & Forms Champion to win the title 5 years in a row- Karen Sheperd is an American actress with numerous credits in film, television and theatre. Her fascination with acting began in high school where she appeared on stage in various plays. Sheperd Is also a World-Class #1 Champion Martial Artist and is in the Black Belt Hall of Fame, alongside icons such as Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Jet Li and Chuck Norris.
Sheperd's Martial Arts Celebrity status springboard her into Hollywood and acting studies. Throughout her acting career, Karen Sheperd has starred and co-starred with luminary award-winners such as Angelina Jolie, Jack Palance, Juan Jett, Madonna, Camilla Sparv, Paul Williams, James Hong, Nancy Kwan, John Hawkes, Pamela Anderson and more.
Karen received rave reviews for her lead theatre roles in Hollywood theatre productions such as "Summer and Smoke" by Tennessee Williams and "In The Boom Boom Room" by David Rabe.
Inspired by Bruce Lee, Karen Sheperd set out to become the first "female Bruce Lee." Sheperd dove into Martial Arts and ultimately became legendary. A trailblazing pioneer, Karen broke barriers and became the first female Champion to be rated #1 in the only ratings system at the time, "Karate Illustrated" magazine (1979 & 1980.) In 1979, at the request of "Karate Illustrated's" editor (Renardo Barden,) Sheperd embarked on what would be an historical and successful campaign to establish official ratings for women when none existed so that more women would compete. The number of women training and competing in 1979 was 10% (Black Belt Magazine). During Karens #1 reign and after, she witnessed the numbers rise to 50% because of her campaign. Inside Kung Fu's" "Star" ratings for women began in 1980, Karen garnering that #1 title as well.
Karen Sheperd was one of the first women to appear on the covers of major Martial Arts magazines such as "Black Belt", "Inside Karate", "KICK", and many more.
Besides acting, Karen has lent her expertise as a fight-choreographer to various film, television and stage productions, including live-action projects at Disneyland, CA.
Karen has been happily married to the same man since 1993, loves animals, has always had numerous rescue cats and dogs, actively serves her church community and still pursues acting.Kajukenbo, Wun Hop Kuen (US Open Karate Grand Champion; US Black Belt Forms Champion; Black Belt Hall of Fame entry; WKC Gold medalist)
was the first female Grand Champion of the US Open Karate tournament - Actress
- Producer
- Additional Crew
Daughter of a Chinese woman, who spent her childhood in Nishi Ku (Fukuoka City). When she was in elementary school, her parents divorced and she went to live with her mother, who ran a little restaurant. Being a child she practiced karate in junior high school, represented Kyushu in several competitions and finally won the woman national karate championship. During her attendance in the Nippon College of Health and Physical Education for women, where she studied physical education, she saw the film "Young Master" (1980), directed and starring Sing Lung, and decided enrolling JAC (Japan Action Club) to become a stuntwoman. She finally changed her name to "Oshima" and debuted in the TV series "Super Electron Bio-Man" in 1984. At that time one part of JAC, "Asia Action", became independent and based in Hong Kong and Yukari decided to leave Japan. Chinese director Hung Kam-Bo gave her a bit part in the martial arts film "Shanghai Express" in 1986 and thus she began a career in Hong Kong until 1994, when after more than 20 Chinese films and a divorce from star Cheng Ho-Nam she established herself in the Philippines and changed her name for the second time to "Cynthia Luster" (Sincere Raster). Here she would participate in more than 20 films.Gōjū-Ryū Karate (Japan National Women's Champion)
was inspired to enter the film business by watching Sing Lung's "Young Master"- Angela Mao was born as Mao Ching Ying in 1950 as the third of eight children to a family of entertainers for the Peking Opera House. She had a successful career as a Chinesa Opera actress, where her flexibility and martial arts first developed. She was discovered by film producer Raymond Chow who made her a star. Then, she trained in hapkido, and felt attracted to the new kung fu style, on demand by Hong Kong producers. Her career, if not long, was impressive, as she was one of the first women to make that sort of break-through in the film industry, until then reserving the fights and acrobatics to men. She played Bruce Lee's sister in Enter the Dragon (1973), and she also worked with Jackie Chan several times when he was a newcomer. In 1974, she fell in love and married Kelly Lai Chen. Their daughter Hsi Pui Sze was born in 1976. However, the couple divorced. She retired from films in 1983 and moved to America with her second husband when her son George King was born. She moved to Queens, New York in 1993 and eventually opened several Chinese restaurants that she runs with her son and daughter-in-law: Mama King, Nan Bei Ho, New Mei Hua, Guo Ba Inc. She usually declines interviews, because she wanted to lower her profile for the sake of her marriage. In 2008, she visited China to attend the wedding of her daughter, who had been raised by her first husband. In 2016, she gave a reluctant interview to the "New York Times" while feeding her baby granddaughter in one of her restaurants, with her son and daughter-in-law acting as her translators. She said that she still has fans who show up to her restaurants just to see her, but that fame was never as important as taking care of her family.Hapkido (3rd Dan), Tae Kwon Do
made headlines in Hong Kong when she successfully defended herself against a mugger while walking home - Actress
- Stunts
- Additional Crew
Kathy Long was kick-boxing's first "sex Symbol"; the Mia St. John of kick-boxing. She looked more like a blonde surfer girl from southern California than a champion kick-boxer. Kathy dominated women's kick-boxing in the 1980s and retired with a 18-1 kick-boxing record. She fought briefly as a professional boxer with mixed results. Kathy also acted in a few "B" action films, and was part of the first announcing team to cover Ultimate Fighting Championships I.Kickboxing (5-time ISKA/WKA Champion; record: 18-1), Muay Thai
was Michelle Pfeiffer's stunt double for the fight scenes in "Batman Returns"- Actress
- Stunts
- Additional Crew
Mrs. Bannon-Rodriguez is one of the leading female martial artists. Her skills took her to be a WAKO Champion and member of Team Paul Mitchell. She has a 4th degree black belt in Oki-Ryu Kempo and Wushu.
Her champion stats are: 1997 KRZ Magazine's Number #1 Fighter of the '90s, 1995 WAKO-PRO World Champion in Women's Sparring, 1993 WAKO World Champion in Sparring, Weapons and Soft Style Forms, 1991 WAKO World Champion in Sparring, Soft Style Forms and Weapons, 1990 WAKO World Champion in Soft Style Forms, Various Grand Champion Wins; f.e. Battle of Atlanta, E.S.P.N., Battle of New England.
Mrs Bannon-Rodriguez doesn't compete anymore, but still performs in movies and teaches martial arts to the next generation of fighters.Oki-Ryu Kempo (4th Dan; 4-time WAKO Champion), Wushu- Director
- Executive
- Writer
Rebekah Chaney made her directorial and writing debut with the critically-acclaimed short Waste Land, starring noted film actor and Academy Award nominee Ryan O'Neal. Waste Land garnered several awards--in the Boston International Film Festival, Action on Film Festival Long Beach, and the Salento International Film Festival--including Best Short, Best Director, and Best Actor.
As one of the few female directors working in the industry, Chaney continued to defy conventions when in 2012 she made her feature film directorial debut with her original screenplay Slumber Party Slaughter, becoming one of the few female directors working in the horror genre. Slumber Party Slaughter recently won Best Director at the Boston International Film Festival 2012 and was an Official Selection at the Phoenix Film Festival as well as Atlanta Film Festival.
She is the great-grandniece of the legendary silent film actor Lon Chaney, also known as the "Man with a Thousand Faces" who originated the roles of Hunchback of Notre Dame, Phantom of the Opera, among many others in the silver screen. Chaney lives in Los Angeles, Califonia.Tae Kwon Do (2nd Dan)- Actress
- Producer
- Director
Born in Hong Kong of Shanghai and Sechuan parents. Started martial arts and Chinese opera training when she was 4 year-old, and later at the Fan Kok Fa opera academy. Learned different styles from top masters, including Lee Kwan Hung, of Choy Lay Fatt kung fu; Dan Inosanto of jeet kune do; western boxing from John Ladawski; karate from Bruce Leung. She was called "Lady Jackie Chan" in the early 1980s. Worked for Goldig Films, Shaw Brothers, and is well known from appearances in the early 1980s TV series, "Stunt Women", "Legend of Condor Heroes" and "Yang Women Warriors".Choy Lay Fut, Jeet Kune Do, Karate
frequently performed over 30 kung fu movements for indivudal shots in her fight scenes- Polly Ling-Feng Shang-Kuan was born on 10 October 1949 in Pin-Tong, Taiwan. She is an actress, known for Ma lu xiao ying xiong (1973), Bons baisers de Hong-Kong (1975) and Wu lin long hu dou (1970).Karate, Judo, Tae Kwon Do (black belts in all styles)
was honored by Hong Kong audiences with the proclamation that while "Bruce Lee is the dragon, Polly is the phoenix" - Actress
- Producer
- Additional Crew
Lucia Rijker was born on 7 December 1967 in Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands. She is an actress and producer, known for Million Dollar Baby (2004), Star Trek (2009) and Rollerball (2002).Judo (Netherlands Junior Champion), Kickboxing (4-time IWBA, WKA & ISKA World Champion; record: 37-0)
is also a professional boxer and former WIBF/WIBO champion, with a record of 16-0- Actress
- Additional Crew
She graduated summa cum laude from York University in Toronto and went on to work at the University in its Human Performance Lab, testing such elite professional athletes as the Toronto Maple Leafs and Winnipeg Jets and San Jose Sharks. She was also offered a scholarship to the master's program in physiotherapy at the University of Toronto but declined. She has writen a book on fitness and bodybuilding with one of her former university professors. Robert Kennedy (publisher of MuscleMag - whom she used to write for) convinced her to study acting and she began taking classes at the Actors Network in Toronto. Victoria is a blue belt in Shotokan karate and her favorite form of exercise is kickboxing. Victoria splits her time between Toronto, Los Angeles and New Zealand.Kickboxing, Shotokan Karate (blue belt)
Trivia: former writer for the bodybuilding subscription "MuscleMag"- Actress
- Producer
Athena Massey has captivated audiences with an array of multifaceted performances in film and television. She made her film debut opposite Don "The Dragon" Wilson in "Virtual Combat." Massey's physically demanding role garnered a lot of attention and respect. Skilled in Martial Arts and Krav Maga, she performed her own stunts in the film and continued to impress audiences and critics with her kickboxing skills in "Cybertracker 2."
Massey went on to star in films such as "Undercover Heat," "The Unspeakable," "Star Portal," "Termination Man" and "Harold Robbins' Body Parts." She can also be seen in "The Nutty Professor" with Eddie Murphy, "Poison Ivy: The New Seduction," "Molly," and "Black Scorpion Returns."
Emmy Award-winning television shows "Seinfeld" and "The Larry Sanders Show" each offered her a guest-starring appearance. Other television credits include: "Doogie Howser M.D.," "Murder One", "LA Heat", "Young and the Restless," "Nash Bridges," "Red Shoe Diaries," "Black Scorpion" and the highly-acclaimed series, "Star Trek: Voyager."
Massey has also successfully crossed over into the CD Rom interactive world, initially in "Quarterback Attack" with Mike Ditka. She then portrayed a GDI Pilot in "Command & Conquer: Tiberian Sun" and played Lieutenant Eva Lee in "Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2" and "Red Alert 2: Yuri's Revenge."
Massey resides in Los Angeles, California, where she raises two teenage daughters and is passionate about Health & Wellness and travel.Kickboxing, Krav Maga
currently producing a self-titled comic book- Michelle Lintel was born on 14 August 1969 in the USA. She is an actress, known for Black Scorpion (2001), Sting of the Black Scorpion (2002) and Black Scorpion Returns (2001).Krav Maga
2-time Bronze medalst in hurdling at the Junior Olympics - Stunts
- Actress
- Writer
Mimi Lesseos was born on 25 February 1964 in Los Angeles County, California, USA. She is an actress and writer, known for Double Duty (2009), Streets of Rage (1993) and Beyond Fear (1993).Judo, Karate, Kickboxing (International Full Contact Champion)
Trivia: has also performed as a pro wrestler, under the ring name "Magnificent Mimi"- Actress
- Stunts
Michele Krasnoo was born on 1 July 1974 in Culver City, California, USA. She is an actress, known for Kickboxer 4: The Aggressor (1994), Full Contact (1993) and Death Match (1994). She is married to Stephen Lax. They have three children.Tang Soo Do (5th Dan; 8-time NBL & NASKA World Champion; Black Belt Hall of Fame entry)
creator of the Kick-Butt Kickboxing exercise program- Actress
- Stunts
- Producer
Chona Jason was born on 7 March 1963 in Hilo, Hawaii, USA. She is an actress and producer, known for The Time Machine (2002), Ghosts of Mars (2001) and Dragon Fury (1995).Tae Kwon Do (1st Dan), Hapkido (1st Dan), Kendo, Iaido, Kickboxing, Jiu-Jitsu
3-time International Playboy Pin-Up- Fredia Gibbs was born in Chester, PA. USA . Multi Sport Champion. Billed as the Most Dangerous Kickboxing Women In the World after knocking out Frances Champion. Gibbs is a 3x World Kickboxing Champion. She is known for her work on The Roseanne Barr ( 2002) The World Toughest Women. She was featured in the film - Knockout- (2000) Female Boxing Movie she starred as Tanya Tessaro "The Terminator" She also worked on Fresh Prince of Bel Air (1996) Boxing Helena - boxer 2.Muay Thai (3-time ISKA Champion; record: 16-0-1), Tae Kwon Do (1st Dan), Jujitsu
is also a professional boxer, with a record of 9-2-1 with two KOs - Actress
- Stunts
Born 1973 in Chicago, Illinois. She holds 3 black belts in Tae Kwon Do, Goju Karate and Shorin Ryu Karate with 21 years of experience in martial arts and 14 years of experience with boxing. She has the title 'Sifu', and is a national and international fitness presenter. She's a certified trainer with ACE, AAFA and ISMA. She also masters many other arts such as Wushu and Jiu Jitsu. Her talents can be seen in games and movies as she played three roles (Kitana, Mileena & Jade) in the arcade video game Mortal Kombat 2.Tae Kwon Do, Goju-Ryu & Shorin-Ryu Karate, Jujitsu (black belts in all styles), Wushu- Stunts
- Actress
Dana Hee is also a television color commentator (local, national, and int'l Taekwondo events). A master of ceremonies (U.S.O.C. Olympic Academy, Olympic Sports Festival, San Francisco-Seoul Sister City Fund raiser, National Educational seminars for CAPHERD and AAHPERD. A motivational speaker (over 86 engagements) IBM, Hewett Packard, United Way, Int'l Olympic Academy in Greece, United Airlines, SunRider Corp., Pros for Kids, No against Drugs, Community programs, Government Shelters, etc. A spokesperson for Olympic Sports festival, Power Foods Inc., Otomix, Pro-Spec, Alacer Corporation, Santa Clara Cherry Growers ASsoc., United States Taekwondo Union, etc.Tae Kwon Do (Olympic Gold medalist)- Actress
- Stunts
Carolyn Raimondi is known for Dragon Fire (1993) and Bloodfist IV: Die Trying (1992).Tae Kwon Do (National Women's Champion)- Actress
- Producer
- Music Department
Brenda Song was born in Carmichael, California. Her father is Hmong and her mother is Thai-American. Brenda, her parents, and her younger brothers Timmy and Nathan now live in a suburb of Los Angeles.
Brenda was named an All-American Scholar in ninth grade and holds a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.
She stars as London Tipton, the hotel owner's spoiled daughter, in the Disney Channel's sitcom The Suite Life of Zack & Cody (2005). Having acted since age six, Brenda is already a familiar face to Disney Channel viewers. Before beginning production on the new series, she had a recurring role as the hip and trendy Tia on Phil of the Future (2004). She also starred in the top-rated Disney Channel Original Movies Stuck in the Suburbs (2004), the mystery Get a Clue (2002) with Lindsay Lohan, and The Ultimate Christmas Present (2000) with Hallee Hirsh and Spencer Breslin.
Her other television credits include guest starring roles on That's So Raven (2003), George Lopez (2002), The Bernie Mac Show (2001), 7th Heaven (1996), One on One (2001), The Nightmare Room (2001), Judging Amy (1999), Popular (1999), Once and Again (1999), and as a panelist on Small Talk (1996). Brenda also had a starring role on the series 100 Deeds for Eddie McDowd (1999).
On the big screen, she starred in Like Mike (2002) opposite Shad Moss and Jonathan Lipnicki, and appeared in Leave It to Beaver (1997) and Santa with Muscles (1996) starring Hulk Hogan.
A self-proclaimed total dork, she loves sampling international cuisine, shopping and studying. She is an avid Los Angeles Lakers fan.Tae Kwon Do (1st Dan)
was pressured into studying the martial arts by her mother, who wouldn't let her take dance lessons- Actress
- Producer
- Executive
Kristanna Sommer Loken was born in Ghent, New York, to Rande (Porath) and Merlin "Chris" Loken. She is of half Norwegian and half German descent. She began her modeling career at the early age of 15. Encouraged by her mother, who was a model prior to her daughter's birth, Kristanna's modeling career, as well as her aspirations in acting brought her to New York where she now resides. The glamorous actress/ model seems to have stayed true to her roots: her father owns an apple farm in upstate New York where he writes novels and screenplays. Aside from establishing herself as a supermodel with an Elite contract, Kristanna has made numerous television appearances as well as what could be her breakthrough film role in Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003) opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger, released in 2003.Krav Maga
also practices Bikram yoga- Actress
- Stunts
Ka'imi Kuoha is known for Veronica Mars (2004), Return of the Killer Tomatoes! (1988) and Seers of the Ninth Island (2014).Kara-Ho Kempo (1st Dan)
daughter of Sam Kuoha, the only grandmaster of Kara-Ho Kempo- A twenty-plus year veteran of the martial arts and 2-time Gold Medalist (Olympic Style Fighting USTU and AAU), Kimber holds a fourth degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. She is recognized as one of the most powerful women fighters and forms champions in the world. Kimber was also a featured performer on Wesley Snipes TNT special, Masters of the Martial Arts is a World Champion in forms and fighting and graduated from Towson State University with a Degree in Early Childhood Education.Tae Kwon Do (4th Dan; USTU & AAU Gold medalist)
- Actress
- Soundtrack
On February 13th, 1968, a girl of Chinese, English, and Hawaiian ancestry was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her father, Herbert, was a salesman and her mother, Juanita, worked many odd jobs to help support the family. She has one older brother, Glenn. She is a former Miss Teen USA, and modeled in Japan and Italy for several months before deciding to relocate to L.A. and try her hand at show business. She received her break on TV's Growing Pains (1985) in 1987 and never looked back.Karate (1st Dan)
during childhood, at her request, her older brother would "organize" fights between her and neighborhood boys- Actress
- Additional Crew
Lynnette Love is known for WMAC Masters (1995) and Seoul, U.S.A. (2012).Tae Kwon Do- Mer-Mer Chen started her martial arts training in 1984 and began teaching in 1990. Mer-Mer has specialized in martial arts and weapons for more than 10 years and is an expert with the staff, the broadsword, the straight sword, the spear, the chain whip and the three-sectioned-staff. She started training with the famous Wushu teacher Eric Chen, and later trained with the famous Keith Cooke Hirabayashi.
She was also a member of the Los Angeles Wu Shu Team and at UCLA she led the Wushu/Kung Fu club and earned her Bachelor's degree. She graduated in 2003 from the Anderson School at UCLA's Management Development Entreprenuers Program.Wushu (member of Los Angeles Wushu Team) - Actress
- Producer
From pioneering women's MMA to blazing a trail in movies, GINA CARANO is one of Hollywood's most unique rising stars. Carano began her training with Muay Thai to competitive MMA, where she competed in Strikeforce and EliteXC. Her popularity led to her being called the "Face of Women's MMA" and she was the fastest-rising search on Google and third-most-searched person on Yahoo and ranked 5th on a list of the "Top 10 Influential Women" of 2008. In August 2009, Carano fought Cris Cyborg in Strikeforce: Carano vs. Cyborg, the first time two women headlined a major MMA event and at the time was the highest rated fight in Showtime history. Carano compiled a competitive record of 12-1-1 in Muay Thai and a 7-1 in women's MMA.[4]
Outside the ring, Carano served as a mentor to aspiring fighters in the 2007 Oxygen reality series Fight Girls and performed as 'Crush' in the revamped television series American Gladiators before her breakout performance in Steven Soderbergh's film HAYWIRE, holding her own against the likes of Michael Douglas, Michael Fassbender, Channing Tatum, Bill Paxton and Antonio Banderas. Gina's authenticity to making the Action look real earned her performance a Critics Choice Award Nomination for Best Actress in an action film. Hot on the heels came a role in the worldwide hit FAST AND FURIOUS 6 for Universal Pictures opposite Dwayne Johnson furthering her appeal as an Action Star. Next up, she co-starred alongside Robert DeNiro, Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Dave Bautista in Lionsgate's film HEIST followed by the role of 'Angel Dust' in the smash hit MARVEL/FOX film DEADPOOL opposite Ryan Reynolds based on the popular comic book. The film grossed over $870 Million dollars at the Box Office. After starring in the independent films DAUGHTER OF THE WOLF opposite Richard Dreyfuss and the dark comedy MADNESS IN THE METHOD with Jason Mewes and Kevin Smith, Gina had secured a lead role in Jon Favreau's highly reviewed Star Wars TV show THE MANDALORIAN for Disney +. Gina played 'Cara Dune', a former Rebel Shock Trooper in the series. However, after sharing a controversial post on social media, Gina was fired by Lucas Film and her character was written out of the show.
Carano was born in Dallas, Texas, the daughter of Dana Joy (née Cason) and professional football player Glenn Carano who played for the Dallas Cowboys and was the backup quarterback to Roger Staubach. She has two sisters, one older and one younger.
*Gina became the first recipient of ActionFest's Chuck Norris (Best Female Action Star) Award, given to the female action star of the year.
*Gina received the Artemis Action Warrior Award for her contributions to the female action genre and women's MMA. The award was presented to her by Action legend Zoe BellMuay Thai (record: 12-1-1), Mixed Martial Arts (record: 7-1)- Actress
- Stunts
Yanin "Jeeja" pronounced "ChiCha" Vismitananda was born in Bangkok, Thailand. Her mother is Prasita Vismitananda and her father, Pawadol Borirak, was a businessman who died when his daughter was 17, she has an older brother, Nantapong "Jeed" Vismitananda. She is mainly of Thai descent with some English and Burmese ancestry. Vismitananda now holds a 3rd Dan black belt in Taekwondo which she is practicing since she was 11 years old. In her role in the movie Chocolate (2008) she had to incorporate some additional Martial Art moves she recently studies such as Muay Thai and Thai Boxing, she likes watching Martial Arts Action Films and is a fan of Jackie Chan, Tony Jaa, Jet Li and Bruce Lee. Her latest action film is Chocolate 2 in 3D and also she co-stars with Tony Jaa in his Action Film The Protector 2, going back to her private life on the 29th of August 2012, Yanin revealed that she was five months pregnant and was engaged to Adrian Robert Bowden a co-director in one of her films and is the younger brother of the Thai singer Pamela Bowden. Yanin also stated that she plans to suspend herself from work for the next two years, her son, Jayden Bowden Vismitananda was born January 22nd 2013.Tae Kwon Do (3rd Dan), Muay Thai
favorite movie is "Mortal Kombat"- Actress
- Director
- Producer
For Diana Lee Inosanto, joining the cast of the new Star Wars series, Ahsoka and becoming part of the iconic Star Wars franchise may seem like a dream, but it is very much the real-life culmination of 30 years of dedication and hard work. Originally, Diana was featured in The Mandalorian for the show's second season as the Magistrate Morgan Elsbeth after doing most every job Hollywood has to offer as a struggling actress caring for a child with Autism, from stunt person to director. But mostly, Diana credits her success to having the good fortune of being raised in a charmed circle of actors, renowned martial artists and stunt-people who paved the way for so much of the excitement in today's action filled media.
Diana Lee Inosanto is the daughter of martial arts legend, Dan Inosanto and his wife Sue Inosanto. She is also known as the goddaughter of global icon, the late Bruce Lee (hence, Diana Lee). As an American actress, director, writer, martial artist, stunt woman, and children's book author, Diana paved a way in the Hollywood ecosystem that is unique, modern, and inclusive.
During her youth, Diana began learning the Theater Arts under the guidance of her aunt, Asian American actress, Lilia Inosanto, also known by her stage name Lona Nai . Upon graduation, her Aunt Lilia "Lona Nai" guided Diana to study with famed Broadway casting director and acting teacher, the late Michael Shurtleff, (author of the renowned book 'Audition' a bible for aspiring actors.) Years later, she would go on to study with Asian American character actor, Tzi Ma through East West Players' workshops and joined the Lodestone Theater Ensemble, continuing to grow as an actress, participating in everything from Shakespeare to contemporary plays. She furthered her training in the Michael Chekhov method with Lisa Dalton and got the basics of Improv at Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Training Center under Johnny Ray Meeks.
Diana was also a fight and stunt choreographer for several stage productions. This would pave a road for years to come with Diana becoming a "Sensei to the Stars," preparing the who's who in Hollywood for their action roles. Stars like Melissa McCarthy (Spy), Rosa Salazar (Alita:Battle Angel), Lesley-Ann Brandt (Lucifer), Katherine McNamara (Shadowhunters) and Aaron Eckhart & Socratis Otto (I, Frankenstein) were some of the performers under her tutelage.
Throughout her professional career in Hollywood, when it came to acting and directing, Diana discovered that the Hollywood system was not particularly inclusive. As a young mother of a son with Autism, the road was not easy. In time Diana met her future husband, Ron Balicki, a former deputy sheriff and renowned martial artist turned stuntman, action coordinator & choreographer in Hollywood. Throughout their years together, they formed MARS Action Group and would teach martial arts across the country and internationally.
After being spotted demonstrating a fight scene with Ron Balicki, the producers of the movie 'Barb Wire' asked her to take on a role originally cast for a man. The scene, featuring New Zealand actor Temuera Morrison (known internationally for portraying Jango Fett in Star Wars: Episode II and Episode III) gave Diana her first break as a stunt woman. Diana straight away became the martial arts double for actress Sarah Michelle Gellar for the presentation to pitch Buffy the Vampire Slayer as a TV Show, directed by Joss Whedon. This would be the beginning of Diana's years as a stunt woman in Hollywood where she found tremendous success working on popular films and TV shows.
Taking inspiration from notable indie filmmakers she got to know over time, Diana decided to seize control to create her own film project. Making the most of her stunt work, Inosanto learned about the filming process by watching and absorbing while on set the craft from such A-list directors, like Ang Lee, John Woo, Barry Sonnenfeld, and Chris Columbus. By 2010, Inosanto's first Indie film, The Sensei, a film she wrote, directed, and starred, would be one of the earliest digitally released films distributed on Netflix and I-Tunes. Filmed on a tiny budget, The Sensei took place in the 1980's and tells the story of a gay teenager, bullied in a rural town during the height of the AIDS epidemic. The film would go on to win awards and accolades at film festivals like the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival where she had her world premiere at the DGA, New York's Newfest, San Francisco's Frameline, Hoboken International Film Festival, Philadelphia Asian American Film Fest, Germany's Verzaubert Film Festival and LA Femme International Film Fest to name a few. The film, supported by the Matthew Shepard Foundation, earned Diana the Asian American Justice Center, 2011 American Courage Award, presented at the time by Tom Perez (DNC Chairman, who was at that time Assistant Attorney General for Civil rights) in Washington, D.C., where several members of Congress and humanitarian activists were present. Shortly thereafter, Diana became the first woman to receive the Maverick Award at the AOF International Film Festival.
In later years, she would also participate as an activist for several causes, including the recent participation in the nationwide Wash-the-Hate PSA, a campaign that would address the growing hate incidents against Asian Americans since the outbreak of Covid-19. She was asked to speak with other prominent Asian Americans in the film and fashion industry, speaking in front of a virtual panel for NIKE 's employees worldwide. In 2016, during President Obama's administration, Diana was also a guest at the White House joining Asian American leaders and Influencers for the Filipino History Month, championing the Congressional Gold Medal Bill for WWII Filipino American Veterans.
As a woman of many interests, Diana has now released a children's book, teaming up with her adult Autistic son, an illustrator, S.G Inosanto and telling their story in The Curious Mind of Sebastian-an amusing tale about Diana as a young mom, curiously trying to understand the mysteries of Autism through her four-year-old son's quirky behavior. Sebastian's inability to verbally express his love led Inosanto on an incredible journey to find out that love will always find a way to speak.
In 2018, Diana joined Oscar winning producer, Mark Gordon (Saving Private Ryan) and Matt Jackson (Molly's Game) in developing the story on her father Dan Inosanto's work creating a secret training program for the 1977 Dallas Cowboys that helped them to win Super Bowl XII.
Diana feels that her personal philosophy of life is best expressed by Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African American female astronaut: "Never be limited by other people's limited imaginations."Jeet Kune Do, Silat, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Black Belt Magazine's 2009 Woman of the Year- Actress
- Producer
- Soundtrack
Summer is a native of San Antonio, Texas. She's been a ballerina most of her life. Her debut was in various commercials and a guest appearance on the WB's Angel (1999). She has gone on to star on the TV series Firefly (2002) as well as its follow-up movie Serenity (2005) and the TV series Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles (2008).Wushu, Kickboxing
began acting after an ankle injury ended her ballet career- Stunts
- Actress
- Additional Crew
Sophia Crawford was born in Hammersmith, London, and is one of Triplets. She left England in 1986 and took an incredible journey on a bus overland from London to India. After spending some time in India and Nepal, Sophia headed to Thailand, where she began her movie career. At first she was an editorial model and an extra in American productions such as: Kickboxer (1989) and Around the World in 80 Days (2004). After working with several crews from Hong Kong, Sophia decided it was time to make a move and try her luck in Hong Kong cinema. She went around to the various studios looking for work. Her first role was New Kid in town (1990) (New Kids in Town). The director had asked her if she could fight. Thinking this would be easy, she said yes and was consequently killed off because she was so terrible. Humiliated, yet determined, Sophia had found her niche. For the next five years, she studied Martial Arts and stunts with some of the top names in the business. She co-starred in more than thirty movies and became the first Western woman to join an Asian Stunt team. Sophia moved to the United States in 1993 and has appeared in hundreds of movies and television shows. Including; Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (1993) and WMAC Masters (1995). She was Sarah Michelle Gellar's stunt double on Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997) for four years and has helped numerous actors with her Martial arts prowess. She is currently President of the United Stuntwomen's Association.Karate, Tae Kwon Do
was the personal stunt double for Sarah Michelle Gellar throughout "Buffy the Vampire Slayer"- Stunts
- Actress
- Second Unit Director or Assistant Director
As an established and extremely talented stunt double and actress, Zoe Bell has made a name for herself through her unparalleled dedication, skills, and focus.
Zoe Bell was born on Waiheke Island, New Zealand, to Tish, a nurse, and Andrew Bell, a doctor. She has a background in gymnastics and martial arts. She began working as a stunt woman when she doubled Lucy Lawless on the cult favorite TV series Xena: Warrior Princess (1995). Bell also appeared as a double in the ABC thriller Alias (2001) and on an episode of Cleopatra 2525 in 2000 as a double for Vicki Pratti. In the action packed-documentary Double Dare (2004), Bell, along with legendary stunt-woman Jeannie Epper, give an insight into the career of women who take falls and punches for a living. Double Dare also gives a glimpse into the struggles of stunt-women to stay thin, employed, and sane in a male-dominated career.
After the cancellation of Xena, Bell's next gig was working with Quentin Tarantino in Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003) and Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004), playing the stunt double for Uma Thurman's role, The Bride. Bell was nominated for her work in Kill Bill, Vol. 1 in the categories of Best Stunt by a Stunt Woman and Best Fight for the Taurus World Stunt Awards, both of which she would win the following year for Kill Bill: Vol. 2. Bell also showed off her stunt-woman skills as a double for Sharon Stone in Halle Barry's Catwoman (2004).
Bell was injured in the final days of filming, requiring surgery, but she has since recovered and returned to work. Bell appeared along with legendary stunt woman Jeannie Epper in Amanda Micheli's acclaimed documentary Double Dare (2004), which offers a glimpse at the lives and careers of both women, as well as the friendship they share.
Bell debuted her acting career, with her already famous stunt skills, in the double feature Grindhouse (2007) written by Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez. She was hand-picked, by Tarentino himself, to star in his segment of the double feature, Death Proof (2007), about four women working in the film industry that are stalked by a murderer in his Death Proof car.
Bell, a native of New Zealand, resides in Los Angeles but hopes to someday own a home in New Zealand.Tae Kwon Do
was hand-picked by Quentin Tarantino to double for Uma Thurman in the "Kill Bill" series- Actress
- Additional Crew
- Director
Wushu (Chinese International Bronze Medalist), Tai Chi
sister of Donnie Yen and daughter of Master Bow-Sim Mark- Actress
- Soundtrack
Thuy Trang was born on December 14th of 1973 in Saigon, Vietnam. After the fall of Saigon in 1975 to Communist forces, her father who had fought in the Vietnam War, traveled to the United States to seek political asylum. However, his entire family, unable to follow, were left behind.
In 1979, Thuy and her family boarded a cargo ship with other refugees to travel to the United States. However, first they sailed to a detention camp in Hong Kong.
The family was finally reunited in California in 1980.
Thuy graduated from Banning High School and earned a scholarship to study civil engineering at UC Irvine.
After her father died from cancer In 1992, Thuy got interested in acting and, in 1993, got her first big break when she landed the role of Trini Kwan on the hit TV series Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (1993). In 1994, Thuy left the show to pursue other projects.
After appearing in a video documentary called the Encyclopedia of Martial Arts: Hollywood Celebrities (1995), as an interviewee, and a cameo as a manicurist in Spy Hard (1996), Thuy got her next large role as Kali in The Crow: City of Angels (1996), the sequel to The Crow (1994).
Tragically, on September 3rd 2001, Thuy was a passenger in a car traveling on the I-5, that lost control. She suffered fatal injuries.
She leaves behind only a small body of work but, through them, she made an impact on many.
Thuy Trang will be missed by many.Shaolin Kung Fu
came to American from Vietnam by boat; she almost died during the voyage and had to be saved by her mother from being thrown overboard- Actress
- Producer
- Director
FYI: I've written my own BIO. To be honest it felt more sincere than pretending like I hired some journalist to do a ton of research and come up with a non biased presentation. So here it goes.
Nia Peeples- What others have said: is an American actress, singer, dancer. For more than 30 years Nia has graced the screen with her talent and intelligence, her fearlessness and compassion, and her beauty. (Why thank you) Most known for her roles in the hit TV series Fame, Walker Texas Ranger, and Pretty Little Liars as well as her jaunt through the music industry with her number 1 record Trouble and the 3 music shows she hosted in that era, Nia is one of the first multi-racial performers to cross all genres and all platforms helping to lay the groundwork for bridging the gap between ethnic performers and leading roles in Hollywood.
Recently, with her son well on his music path, her daughter heading off to college, and her 4th marriage ending, Nia sold everything and went on "walk about" to realign with her greater purpose. After three years of wandering, Nia has returned with one book under her belt, The Little Apple Tree, and is in the middle of writing her second, "Confessions of a Serial Monogamist, Journey Through the Men I loved to the Me I Love, for which she interviewed all her significant others.
Nia's passion is empowering women and students. She is also a keynote speaker, works very closely with My Saint My Hero creating and launching empowering lines of jewelry, and continues to perform live.
(2018) Nia currently lives in Topanga, CA when she's not fasting at an ashram or studying quantum physics and sacred geometry:)Wushu
trained by Bruce Fontaine- Michiko Nishiwaki is a multi-talented lady. An actress, martial artist, stunt woman, fight choreographer, and Japan's first Woman's Bodybuilding and Power lifting Champion. She held these titles for 1980, 1981 and 1982. While still keeping her femininity and not bulking up with the aid of anabolic steroids or other drugs, Michiko created a bodybuilding boom all over Japan and was in constant demand for personal and television appearances, and executive personal training. All this while operating two successful gyms. Michiko forever changed the stereotype of the submissive and docile Japanese woman by being a strong role model. She now lives in the U.S. with her Husband and Son.Karate
Japan's first female national bodybuilding/powerlifting champion - Muay Thai (Junior National Champion)
- Kessarin Ektawatkul is known for Born to Fight (2004), Pirate of the Lost Sea (2008) and Game Rak Game Payabaht (2021).Tae Kwon Do (Thailand National Champion)
- Daughter of English hair stylist Vidal Sassoon and American actress Beverly Adams, she was born and lived her tender years in Manhattan, New York, then in Los Angeles, California.
At 14, she dropped out of Beverly Hills High School to pursue a modeling career in New York, due to the persuasion of talent agent John Casablancas. She signed with the Prestige Agency and was considered with their best junior models, svelte and with beautiful gray eyes, and long reddish hair. She traveled to London with her father, and made that city her new hometown while modeling in Europe.
During a visit to Los Angeles, she was invited to do a film test, and soon she earned a nickname, the title of her first big movie, Tuff Turf (1985). Managing her schedules, she continued her fashion model career while taking part in TV series like Amazing Stories (1985), Out of This World (1987), Hardball (1989), and The Fanelli Boys (1990).
The big movies came next, and the first of a series of five films she signed for with producer Roger Corman. Angelfist (1993) was not her best film, but it certainly became popular and resisted two decades in video, portraying an undercover narcotics agent, Catara Lange (a name reminiscent of her real name, and Los Angeles), in the milieu of competitive and extreme martial arts. She invested for her new character by studying tae kwon do and arnis de mano, but did not fulfill her contract due to her premature death, during a New Year's Eve party.
Married twice, Catya Sassoon had three children: a son born in London, in 1995, and twin daughters Mycca and Syke born in the spring of 2000.Karate (WKA & North American Champion)
was also a model and singer for the rock group Feline Force - Actress
- Producer
Kristin Kreuk was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, to Deanna Che, who is of Chinese ancestry, and Peter Kreuk, who is of Dutch descent. Her parents are landscape architects. She attended and graduated from Eric Hamber Secondary School. Although she did some stage work in school, she focused more on her studies. She described herself as shy and boring.
For her first professional work, she went to an open casting audition for Edgemont (2000), a teen drama series aired on CBC Television in Canada. She plays the role as "Laurel Yeung". Laurel was the last main character to be cast because the casting director was having a problem finding an actress. Fortunately, for them (and us), they found Kristin just in time.
Her career was set to take off when she landed on the highly acclaimed serial drama series for The WB, Smallville (2001). It follows the story of "Clark Kent" in his pre-Superman days in a small town of Smallville, Kansas. Kreuk played the role as "Lana Lang", Clark Kent's object of desire before he meets "Lois Lane".
Smallville (2001) proved to be a giant step for Kristin's acting career, as she landed several interviews with several magazines, including YM (Young and Modern) and Rolling Stone. She also did a commercial for Neutrogena, popular for its skin care products.Karate (purple belt)
also practices gymnastics and swimming- Stunts
- Actress
- Producer
Lauren Mary Kim is the faceless action hero who brings adrenaline to films, television and video games. As a child she trained in acrobatics and dance and originally moved to Los Angeles to become a dancer where she landed her first job as a Laker girl. Soon after, she trained in acting, martial arts and stunt work. She is best known for her work on The Mandalorian, Clone Wars Season 7, Furious 7, The Last of Us 2, Mortal Kombat 11 and doubled as Elektra on Netflix's hit series Daredevil and Defenders. She specializes in several fighting techniques including Taekwondo, Wushu, Silat, Filipino Martial Arts, Jeet Kune Do and Capoeira.Muay Thai, Wushu
also trained in XMA under Matt Mullins- After studying Chinese and jazz dance from elementary school, at 17 years old, she won a national contest to find new talents, organized by Taiwanese TV, and shortly after she made several appearances on TV, and also got cast in a bit part in the Taiwanese film "Taipei Story" (1985), directed by Edward Yang. In 1987 she signed a contract with Hong Kong film studio D & B to replace Malaysian action star Michelle Yeoh and from then she starred in more than 20 martial arts films. From 1994 she combined her appearances in movies with TV series, making more than ten TV productions in only 5 years.Tae Kwon Do
born Yang Li-Tsing; took her stage name by combining those of Cynthia Rothrock (her film idol) and Michelle Khan (aka Yeoh, whom she replaced in the "In the Line of Duty" series)" - Actress
- Soundtrack
One of four children, Blackman was born in London's East End, to Edith Eliza (Stokes), a homemaker, and Frederick Thomas Blackman, a statistician employed with the Civil Service. She received elocution lessons for her 16th birthday (at her own request), and later attended the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, which she paid for by working as a clerical assistant in the Civil Service. She was also a dispatch rider for the Home Office during World War II, playing an important role in the war effort.
Blackman received her first acting work on stage in London's West End as an understudy in "The Guinea Pig". She continued with roles in "The Gleam" (1946) and "The Blind Goddess" (1947), before moving into film. She debuted with Fame Is the Spur (1947), starring Michael Redgrave.
Blackman suffered a nervous breakdown following her divorce from Bill Sankey, a man 12 years her senior, who's jealousy, fraudulent business practices, and emptying of her bank accounts took it's toll. After hospitalisation Blackman began counselling, which would last for years, and began rebuilding her career.
TV series work also came her way again, most notably the highly popular The Avengers (1961), co-starring Patrick Macnee as John Steed. As the leather-clad "Catherine Gale", Blackman showcased her incredible beauty, self-confidence, and athletic abilities. Her admirable qualities made her not only a catch for the men, but also an inspirational figure for the 1960s feminist movement.
Blackman took on the role of Greek goddess Hera in popular movie adventure Jason and the Argonauts (1963) with Ray Harryhausen and melodrama Life at the Top (1965) with Laurence Harvey. She then played "Pussy Galore" in the classic James Bond film Goldfinger (1964). Blackman went toe to toe with Sean Connery's womanizing "007" and created major sparks on screen.
Blackman continued to work consistently in films and tv, while also appearing on stage where she earned rave reviews as the blind heroine of the thriller "Wait Until Dark" as well as for her dual roles in "Mr. and Mrs.", a production based on two of Noël Coward's plays. She also enjoyed working with her second husband, actor Maurice Kaufmann, in the play "Move Over, Mrs. Markham" and the film thriller Fright (1971). She proved a sultry-voiced sensation in various musicals productions such as "A Little Night Music", "The Sound of Music", "On Your Toes", and "Nunsense."
In the new millennium, Honor was seen in such films as Bridget Jones's Diary (2001), Color Me Kubrick (2005), Reuniting the Rubins (2010), I, Anna (2012) and Cockneys vs Zombies (2012), as well as the British TV serieses Water, Water, Everywhere (1920) The Royal (2003) Coronation Street (1960), long running series Casualty (1986) and finally You, Me & Them (2013), her last role after her retirement several years earlier.
Divorced from Kaufmann in 1975 (although they remained friends until his death, Blackman even cared for him during his 13 year battle with cancer), Blackman never remarried, revealing in an interview that she simply preferred single life, "Basically I'm a shy person and I like my own company". Unable to conceive, the couple adopted two children, Lottie and Barnaby, in '67 and '68 respectively.
The ever-lovely and eternally glamorous star continued to find regular work into her 90s, including co-starring in the long-running English hit comedy series The Upper Hand (1990) and performing her one-woman stage show, "Wayward Women"
Honor Blackman died on April 5, 2020, in Lewes, Sussex. She was 94.Judo
credits her ability to perform many of her own stunts to her martial arts training- Karate
- At an early age Francoise passed on an opportunity to study in music and chose to persue a degree in Political Science. It was during those years, Francoise started with modeling. That career didn't last long, but she did get the opportunity to star with Jackie Chan in Rumble in the Bronx. For her work, she earned two Hong Kong Film Award nominations and a star was born.
Francoise was not a martial artist, but she trained in screen-fighting. With her athletic skills she ended up doing various martial arts movies, including two with the legendary Jet Li.Wushu
was considered to play a role in "The Matrix Reloaded" - Actress
- Producer
- Writer
Bobbie Phillips is an actress, animal advocate, and a true Chameleon (1998); both on screen and off. Bobbie has portrayed a variety of characters in various genres throughout her career. Widely recognized for her award winning role as the insect loving entomologist, Dr. Bambi Berenbaum on War of the Coprophages (1996); Phillips also received industry praise for her turn as Julie Costello on Steven Bochco's Murder One (1995); A genre favorite as the first female crow, "Talon", on The Crow: Stairway to Heaven (1998); Phillips left Hollywood in 2003 when Bobbie and her husband traveled to Costa Rica and then Fiji to begin Anthony's surfing career. The couple traveled extensively between Canada, Fiji, Australia and Mexico before Bobbie returned to acting in 2014. Bobbie Phillips continues to create in her unique style on diverse projects and she always reinvents herself like a great actress should.Tae Kwon Do
trained by Billy Blanks on the set of "TC 2000"- Actress
- Stunts
Hailing from Sydney, Australia, she is a former undefeated kumite fighter and 1988 World Karate Champion. She participated in state, national, and international tournaments, receiving the Most Outstanding Competitor Award at the World Karate Championships in Japan. Her martial arts skills also include Tae Kwon Do, Muay Thai, Grappling, Kung Fu (Wushu and Shaolin Eagle claw) and weapons (fencing, firearms, Chinese broad sword and whip chain). A member of the Hong Kong Stuntman's Association with special training in Hong Kong, Kim-Maree's expertise was showcased in action movies where she appeared and fought with many of the industry's top stars- Cynthia Khan, Simon Yam, Michelle Yeoh, Frankie Chan, Fan Siu Wong, Hwang Jang Lee, Jackie Chan, Lee Majors and Jean Claude Van damme.
Kim-Maree is the CEO of Signal 8 Security head quartered in Hong Kong. She is trained in Threat management, Protective driving, Electronic counter surveillance, IED search and recognition, Defense and restraint techniques, Unarmed combat and Tactical firearms. Her extensive experience in the security industry has led her to provide protection services from low to high risk security details with clients ranging from fortune 100s, dignitaries to high profile celebrities.Tae Kwon Do, Muay Thai, Wushu, Shaolin Eagle Claw (WKC Champion)
director of the Hong Kong division of the International Bodyguard Association- Actress
- Additional Crew
- Location Management
Sunny, dynamic and beautiful slender blonde actress Jillian Kesner was born on August 9, 1949 in Portsmouth, Virginia and grew up primarily in Denver, Colorado. Her father was a Navy officer. Jillian received a B.A. in business from a Colorado university in 1967. In 1969 Kesner moved to Los Angeles, California and worked as a model prior to embarking on an acting career in both movies and television. Jillian made her impressive film debut as fiery juvenile delinquent Carrie in the fun drive-in exploitation romp "The Student Body." (She met her future husband and noted cinematographer Gary Graver while acting in this particular picture.) Other memorable movie roles include the sweetly kooky, yet intelligent Angel in the amusing "Starhops," tough, but sexy karate instructor Susanne Carter in the hugely enjoyable "Firecracker," feisty martial arts expert Cookie Winchell in the gloriously tasteless "Raw Force," and alluring vampiress Claudia in the lowbrow hoot "Beverly Hills Vamp." Kesner was a regular cast member of the short-lived sitcom "Co-ed Fever." Perhaps best known to the general public as Fonzie's girlfriend Lorraine on "Happy Days," Jillian made guest appearances on such TV shows as "S.W.A.T.," "The Blue Knight," "The Rockford Files," "Three's Company," "Mork & Mindy," and "T.J. Hooker." Outside of her acting credits, Jillian also handled production coordinator chores on a handful of low-budget straight-to-video movies that were directed by Graver. In addition, both Kesner and Graver tried to complete Orson Welles's unfinished film "The Other Side of the Wind." Following Graver's death in 2006, Jillian continued her efforts to preserve Welles's cinematic legacy. Jillian Kesner died at age 58 from a staph infection on December 5, 2007 in Irvine, California.Karate
she and husband Gary Griver pieced together footage the latter shot in the 1970s for Orson Welles' unfinished film "The Other Side of the Wind", which they intended to eventually release- Roongtawan Jindasing is known for Kill 'em All (2012) and Raging Phoenix (2009).Judo
former member of the Royal Thai Police Force; continues to teach martial arts to active officers - Actress
- Stunts
- Director
Actress, stunt woman, and martial artist Marjean Holden was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota and raised in Vail, Colorado. She started acting from the age of 9, well being from the family of entertainers, she already knew her profession. As a youngster, she showed multiple skills in her school plays, and also in sports. Later she started martial arts training in boxing and Wun Hop Kuen Do, which she used in most of her action-fighting films. With her athletic abilities and martial arts, she entered in the world of motion pictures as an actress and stunt woman. Some of her stunt work was in Bulletproof (1996), Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997) and Blade (1998).
After few films, she made her first professional debut in Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989) and made appearances in such films as Stop! Or My Mom Will Shoot (1992) and SF film Nemesis (1992).
Her memorable roles were in Ballistic (1995), in which all martial arts movie goers knows that she had a match against body builder lady Corinna Everson. Next is The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997), Mortal Kombat: Annihilation (1997), where she portrayed Sheeva and John Carpenter's horror Vampires (1998) as one of the vampire masters. As for her TV appearances, she was in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993) and Babylon 5: A Call to Arms (1999), but she became famous for her roles in Crusade (1999) and BeastMaster (1999) TV series. She played a supporting role besides Bruce Willis in Hostage (2005). She recently completed working on "Bring me the Head of Lance Henriksen" with Michael Worth.Wun Hop Kuen
also a Colorado state sprinting champion- Actress
- Producer
Graciella Casillas was born on 22 August 1956 in Oxnard, California, USA. She is an actress and producer, known for Fire in the Night (1985), Full Impact (1993) and The Lioness Within (2024).Shen Chun Do (10th degree black belt; founder), Kenpo (3rd dan), Jujitsu (3rd dan), Tae Kwon Do, Jeet Kune Do, Escrima, Kickboxing (WKA Champion; record: 31-0; Martial Arts Hall of Fame entry)
fended off two would-be rapists by stabbing one with his own knife; the event served as inspiration for her to design a self-defense knife specifically for women- Actress
- Producer
- Director
Award-winning actress, director, producer, Katheryn Winnick, is best known for starring and directing the critically acclaimed, Emmy award-winning television series "Vikings." Winnick made her directorial debut in sixth and final season which earned her "Best Director" at the 2020 WIN Awards. She produced and starred in Sean Penn's "Flag Day" that premiered at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival and recently starred in David E. Kelley's critically acclaimed series "Big Sky" that was ABC's most watched and highest-rated debut since 2017. She started her production company, Kat Scratch Inc., to champion strong female-lead stories.Tae Kwon Do (3rd Dan), Karate (2nd Dan)
is a licensed bodyguard- Actress
- Writer
- Producer
Laura Niles is an actress, stand-up comedian, writer, and director from Los Angeles, California.
Laura made her start in entertainment as a model and actress, and joined Screen Actors Guild in 1997. She has been cast in numerous TV and film roles, notably as the boxing instructor in Californication.
On that set, a serendipitous meeting with comic and boxing enthusiast Garry Shandling led Laura to pursue Stand-up Comedy.
Laura now regularly performs stand-up comedy at major clubs in Los Angeles, including Ice House, Comedy Store, The Improv, and Flappers. She has a Youtube series called "DIY with Laura," which explores philosophy through humor. She produces a Podcast called "Texts from the Crypt."
Behind the scenes, Laura has worked as Video Editor and Program Coordinator to IATSE's principal lobbyist, active in facilitating AB1839, the Film and TV Tax Credit Incentive program.
Laura has a Bachelor's in International Relations and Mandarin Chinese from the University of Southern California.
Laura is an avid boxer. As a martial artist, Laura practiced Shaolin Kung Fu since age 14, and has a 3rd degree black belt.Shaolin Kung Fu
also an amateur boxer- Actress
- Producer
- Talent Agent
is a retired American professional wrestler. She is best known under her ring names Madusa (shorthand for Made in the USA) or Alundra Blayze. Her early career was spent in the American Wrestling Association, where she held the AWA World Women's Championship one time. In 1988, Miceli was also the first woman to be awarded Pro Wrestling Illustrated's Rookie of the Year. The following year, she signed a contract with All Japan Women's Pro-Wrestling, making her the first foreign wrestler to do so. She later joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where she was a member of the Dangerous Alliance, a group of wrestlers managed by Paul E. Dangerously. In 1993, she joined the rival World Wrestling Federation (WWF) under the name Alundra Blayze. In the WWF, she feuded with Bull Nakano and Bertha Faye, while holding the WWF Women's Championship a total of three times. Two years after joining the WWF, Miceli returned to WCW, showing up on an episode of Monday Nitro to throw the WWF Women's Championship belt into a trash can. For the next six years, she worked in WCW, where she feuded with Bull Nakano, Oklahoma, and became the first women to hold the WCW World Cruiserweight Championship. After training wrestlers at the WCW Power Plant, she left the company in 2001.
In addition to wrestling, Miceli competes in the world of monster trucks. She drives a truck named Madusa, which was also her ring name for much of her professional wrestling career. She won the 2004 co-championship at the Monster Jam World Finals for freestyle in the first-ever three-way tie. The following year, she was the only female competitor in the Super Bowl of Motorsports, and she won the Racing Championship in the Monster Jam World Finals.Kickboxing
is the Executive Vice President of the Major League of Monster Trucks- Actress
- Stunts
She enjoys snow-boarding, reading, eating veggie-burgers, drinking smoothies, hanging out with her friends, acting, and making creative works such as beading jewelry, painting, writing poetry, sewing funky dresses, and photographing interesting images. Her heritage is Korean, and she speaks some Korean and Spanish. In her late teen years she did some modeling, but otherwise has always been into the performing/entertaining field. U.C.R., B.A. in psychology completed, and C.S.P.P., PhD in psychology. in progress for her education.Karate
trained under California's Japanese Karate Association- Born in Hong Kong, Tsang Sze-Man, or Angie Tsang, was a martial artist who began learning lion dancing at the age of eight. Shortly after, she began to train in wushu and became a national competitor. At the age of 13, she was hired by director Yuen Woo-Ping to play legendary Chinese folk hero Wong Fei-Hung in the film Iron Monkey opposite Donnie Yen (who played her father Wong Kai-Ying) and Yu Rong-Guang (who played the titular character).
Angie continued to compete and in 2003, began a new career as a member of the Hong Kong police force. She had always wanted to become an officer since she was a little girl. She continued to compete in wushu tournaments, where she earned a Gold Medal at the Silver medal at the Doha competition in 2006.
She married Sidney Chan and on May 11, 2008 (Mother's Day that year), the couple became the proud parents of a daughter, Winsome. Today, Angie continues as a police officer for the Hong Kong police force.Wushu (World Championships Gold & Silver medalist)
currently works as a police officer - Actress
- Soundtrack
Kiki Sukezane is a Japanese actress, active both in America and Japan. Born in Kyoto to a family with historical samurai ancestry, Kiki was inspired to learn English and studied abroad in South Dakota. Upon returning to Japan and graduating, Kiki attended acting school in Tokyo before moving to Los Angeles. While honing her sword fighting skills, she booked her first major role as Katana Girl/Miko Otomo in NBC's Heroes Reborn. Following her first major success, Kiki has stayed active in the industry, booking roles in various television shows and films including Lost in Space (Netflix), Westworld (HBO), Earthquake Bird (Netflix), and lead character, Yuko Tanabe, in The Terror: Infamy (AMC.)She is a well trained actor and a martial artist. She is a descendant of a famous Samurai bloodline and the name Sukezane can be traced back to 13th century sword smiths.- Natasha Liu Bordizzo is an Australian actress.
She was born on the 25th of August 1994 in Sydney. Natasha has an academic background, having deferred a law degree to pursue work in film. She also holds a strong background in sports - particularly martial arts, having achieved a black-belt in Taekwondo.She holds a strong background in sports - particularly martial arts, having achieved a black-belt in Taekwondo. - Stunts
- Actor
- Casting Department
Rissa Kilar began martial arts at the age of 5. With her being a military child, she has constantly moved around every few years with her family until finally settling in Los Angeles, California. In Los Angeles, she further pursued her martial arts career as an instructor and World Champion competitor and performer. After a couple years in LA, acting and stunts sparked her interest and with her connections through the martial arts industry, she has been set on the path towards exciting opportunities of the entertainment industry.Rissa Kilar began martial arts at the age of 5. With her being a military child, she has constantly moved around every few years with her family until finally settling in Los Angeles, California. In Los Angeles, she further pursued her martial arts career as an instructor and World Champion competitor and performer. After a couple years in LA, acting and stunts sparked her interest and with her connections through the martial arts industry, she has been set on the path towards exciting opportunities of the entertainment industry.- Actress
- Producer
- Director
Elodie Yung was born in Paris, France, of Cambodian and French descent. She grew up in Seine-saint-Denis, in Le Bourget, where she practiced karate and obtained her black belt. She graduated from University of La Sorbonne in Paris and has a law degree. She then decided to study acting at London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art in London.When I was nine, my father said 'You can take piano lessons or do karate' - I had a black belt and was competing before I was 19.
I don't carry sai blades for the sake of it in my personal life. I had to learn how to manipulate the sais. It was very tricky, because it's a weird shape. It's like a big fork. There's a lot of ways that you can use them, but it's not like a sword.- Actress
Kara Hui Ying-Hung was born in Shandong, China; her family moved to Hong Kong in 1966 and at 14 she quit school and started working at nightclubs. Penniless after her family lost their savings from her father's business acquaintances, Hui and her mother and siblings resided in the poor shanty town of Rennie's Mill and were forced to peddle goods on the streets of Hong Kong. Hui was discovered by film director Chia-Liang Liu and cast in Challenge of the Masters (1976) in 1976. Soon after, she started in many films directed by Liu Chia-Liang. She signed with Shaw Brothers Studios in February of 1975 and made over 40 action movies. She won the very first Best Actress Award for her critically-acclaimed role as Jing Dai-Nan in the 1981 classic My Young Auntie (1981) at the first Hong Kong Film Awards in 1982. After Shaw Studios closed down in 1985, Kara's career transition was very smooth and she has since portrayed more serious roles with very great success, winning the Hong Kong Film Awards, Hong Kong Film Critics Society Awards, Changchun Film Festival, Pacific Meridian, Asian Film Awards, and Golden Horse Awards for her portrayal of a mother in the 2009 film At the End of Daybreak and winning Best Supporting Actress for her role as Yeung Feng in Rigor Mortis in 2014 at the 33rd Hong Kong Film Awards. Kara Hui is a legend. She has acted in over 138 films and is still active in the Hong Kong film industry today.Born Kara Hui Ying-Hung on in Shandong, China. Her Family moved to Hong Kong in 1966 and she started working at night clubs at fourteen. She has acted in over 138 films and still is active today in the Hong Kong film industry. She was awarded Bronze Bauhinia Star (BBS) by the Chief Executive of Hong Kong Special Administration Region, in recognition of her contribution to Hong Kong film industry and acting performances.