Action legend Jackie Chan is taking a thoughtful look at how the rise of artificial intelligence and digital effects is reshaping the film industry—and how his iconic career might have turned out differently if he were just starting today.
At 71, the martial arts superstar recently appeared at the Karate Kid: Legends premiere in New York City, where he shared with Page Six that he feels grateful to have launched his career before CGI and AI became the norm in filmmaking.
“If I were starting now, I wouldn’t be doing my own stunts,” Chan admitted, pointing to how today’s film industry relies heavily on advanced visual effects and green screen technology. “Because of AI and special effects, a lot of studios won’t let you do it yourself. There’s too much risk.”
Jackie, who has long been celebrated for his death-defying stunts and real action sequences, says the current production environment puts safety and budgets above physical performance.
“Even if you want to do the stunt, the director, producer, or stunt coordinator will stop you,” he explained. “If something goes wrong, it could shut down the whole production and cost millions.”
Jackie Chan’s Physical Commitment Made Him a Legend
Reflecting on his early years, Chan said the need to perform his own stunts helped build his brand and reputation. “In the old days, I had to do it myself, and that’s how I became Jackie Chan,” he said. “I was lucky.”
Known for pushing physical boundaries, Chan has suffered countless injuries over the years—including broken bones, dislocations, and concussions—all in pursuit of authentic action scenes that have become legendary in cinema history.
But he also recognizes the advantages modern actors enjoy. “They are lucky in a different way,” Chan said, acknowledging how AI and CGI reduce physical strain and risk.
AI in Hollywood: Helpful Tool or Creative Replacement?
Chan’s reflections come at a time when the film industry is grappling with the expanding role of artificial intelligence—from deepfakes to synthetic voices and motion capture replacing traditional acting techniques. Debates continue over the ethics, artistry, and impact on jobs, especially in the wake of industry strikes and contract negotiations addressing AI usage.
While Jackie Chan may have benefited from an era that demanded physical grit, he’s aware that today’s stars are navigating a vastly different landscape—one where technology is both a safety net and a controversial force.
Still, for many fans, no amount of CGI can replace the raw adrenaline and authenticity that Jackie brought to the big screen—cementing his place as a one-of-a-kind action hero in cinematic history.
