Cheng Pei-pei, the iconic 'Queen of Martial Arts' and star of 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,' died on July 17, 2024, in the San Francisco Bay area at age 78 after battling corticobasal degeneration.

Renowned for her influential roles in martial arts cinema, Cheng Pei-pei's death marks the end of an era in both Asian and global film industries. Known for her breakout role in 'Come Drink With Me' and her memorable performance in 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,' Cheng's extensive career spans over five decades. Despite her diagnosis, she chose to keep her battle with the rare neurodegenerative disease private, focusing on her family until her passing. She leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of actors and martial artists.

Cheng Pei-pei was born in Shanghai, China, in 1946. In 1962, she moved to Hong Kong and joined the Shaw Brothers Studio as a contracted player. This decision marked the beginning of a prolific career in martial arts cinema, where she cemented her status as a trailblazing actress known for her powerful on-screen presence.

Her breakthrough role came in 1966 with the film 'Come Drink With Me,' directed by King Hu. The film is considered a classic and was instrumental in establishing her as a leading figure in martial arts films. Cheng's portrayal of the character Golden Swallow showcased her exceptional martial arts skills and screen charisma, earning her widespread acclaim.

During her time with Shaw Brothers Studio, Cheng Pei-pei made a total of 20 films. Some of her notable works include 'Princess Iron Fan' and 'Golden Swallow.' These films not only solidified her reputation as a formidable martial artist but also played a significant role in popularizing the genre beyond Asian audiences.

In 1971, Cheng Pei-pei moved to the United States, where she raised four children. Despite her commitments to her family, she managed to continue her acting career, adding various roles to her impressive filmography. Eventually, she divorced her husband but remained a dedicated mother while pursuing her passion for acting.

Cheng Pei-pei made a notable return to the limelight in 2000 with her role as the villain Jade Fox in 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,' directed by Ang Lee. The film was a milestone in her career and achieved global success, earning four Oscars and becoming the first foreign-language film to gross over $100 million at the box office.

Cheng Pei-pei's ability to portray complex characters with depth and intensity made her a standout performer in 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.' Her role as Jade Fox was pivotal to the film's narrative and contributed significantly to its critical and commercial success.

In 2020, Cheng Pei-pei appeared in her final film role as the matchmaker in the live-action adaptation of Disney's 'Mulan.' This role marked the culmination of a career that spanned over five decades and left an indelible mark on the film industry. Her performance in 'Mulan' demonstrated her continued versatility and dedication to her craft.

Cheng Pei-pei's battle with corticobasal degeneration (CBD) remained a private matter until her passing. CBD is a rare neurodegenerative disease with symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease. Currently, there is no treatment to slow its progression. By choosing to keep her condition private, Cheng prioritized spending time with her children and grandchildren, cherishing her remaining moments with them.

Throughout her life, Cheng Pei-pei maintained a deep connection to her roots, returning to Hong Kong in the 1990s. Her enduring legacy in the martial arts genre is a testament to her talent, dedication, and impact on cinema. She inspired countless actors and filmmakers, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Cheng Pei-pei is survived by her four children. Her legacy continues through them and the numerous artists and fans she influenced over the years. As the 'Queen of Martial Arts,' her contributions to film will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.