Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Bruce Lee born and raised?
He was born in San Francisco in 1940, grew up in Hong Kong, and returned to the U.S. as a teenager to continue his education and start teaching martial arts.
Who taught Bruce Lee martial arts?
He trained in Wing Chun under the master Ip Man in Hong Kong, which influenced his early development before he created his own approach.
Did Bruce Lee write any books or notes?
Yes. His training notes and writings were compiled after his death into the book Tao of Jeet Kune Do, covering technique and philosophy.
What happened to his unfinished film Game of Death?
Game of Death was incomplete when he died. Producers used stand-ins and additional footage to assemble a version that was released after his death.
How did Bruce Lee die?
He died suddenly in 1973 from cerebral edema (swelling of the brain). The circumstances have prompted ongoing discussion and some controversy.
Did Bruce Lee have a family?
Yes. He married Linda Lee Cadwell in 1964 and had two children: Brandon Lee (1965–1993) and Shannon Lee (born 1969).
Did Bruce Lee teach other actors or students?
Yes. He taught classes in Seattle, ran schools, and gave private lessons to actors and friends, including well-known Hollywood figures.
What was unique about his training approach?
He emphasized cross-training—speed, strength, flexibility—and borrowed ideas from boxing, fencing, and weight training to focus on practical, efficient movement.
Are there memorials or places to visit honoring him?
Yes. Fans can see statues and exhibits in Hong Kong (such as the Avenue of Stars), and the Bruce Lee Foundation and museums preserve his artifacts and legacy.
