Jackie Chan, a global icon in the entertainment industry, is celebrated for his unique blend of action and comedy, captivating audiences with his signature do-it-yourself stunt style and affable personality. Despite his immense fame, there are intriguing aspects of Chan’s life that many fans remain unaware of. Here are ten lesser-known facts about the beloved star.

Born Chan Kong-sang, Jackie Chan’s early life was steeped in mystery, particularly regarding his family. His father, whose real name was Fong Dalong, was not just an actor but also a spy for the Chinese Nationalist Revolutionary Army. Chan learned this surprising family secret only after the death of his mother in 2001.

Chan’s journey to stardom began at a young age. He was signed to a film company by 1971 and worked as a stuntman in Bruce Lee films. However, his career initially struggled to take off, leading him to star in an adult film titled “All in the Family.” It wasn’t until he was given creative freedom over his stunts that his career began to flourish.

Known for performing his own stunts, Chan holds the Guinness World Record for the most stunts executed by a living actor. His dedication to realism has resulted in numerous injuries, including a fractured skull sustained during the filming of “Armor of God.” Interestingly, despite the success of “Rush Hour,” Chan has stated it’s one of his least favorite films, citing a lack of personal significance.

Apart from acting, Chan is a multifaceted talent, having directed, produced, and even composed music for his films. In 2012, he earned another Guinness World Record for having the most credits on a single film, “Chinese Zodiac.” Additionally, Chan is a trained singer and has released over 20 albums in various languages.

In the realm of philanthropy, Chan has made significant contributions, establishing the Jackie Chan Charitable Foundation in 1988 to aid youth in Hong Kong and disaster victims worldwide. His commitment to giving back has earned him accolades, with Forbes recognizing him as philanthropy’s hardest working man.

Finally, Chan’s influence extends into animation, where he voiced characters in Chinese versions of Disney classics like “Mulan” and “Beauty and the Beast.” These lesser-known facets of Jackie Chan’s life highlight not only his immense talent but also his enduring legacy as a beloved figure in entertainment and philanthropy.