| Stephen M.D. Chang | |
|---|---|
| Born | Peoples Republic of China |
| Other names | Stephen Chang |
| Occupation | Actor, Martial Artist |
| Years active | 1978 - present |
| Website | |
| http://www.grandmasterchang.com | |
Stephen M.D. Chang is a Canadian actor and martial artist, who has starred and guest starred in numerous films and television series. Prior to moving to Canada, Chang grew up in Hong Kong after escaping Communist China, and counted Bruce Lee among his childhood friends, before Lee became a star.[1] He is known for his starring role with Sandra Oh as her father, "Dad Li," in the critically acclaimed Double Happiness, given "Two Thumbs Up" by Siskel & Ebert.[2][3][4] The New York Times called the role, "a departure for Chang, a frequent martial arts movie villain and real-life friend of Bruce Lee." [5] In 1978, Chang actually portrayed Lee in a Coca-Cola commercial.[6][7] As a VC Commander, he tortured John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) in First Blood. Stallone chose Chang for the film without auditioning, after observing Chang teaching his students.[8] In traditional Chinese martial arts, Chang holds the rank of Grandmaster.[9] Chang has guest starred on The X Files, Kung Fu: The Legend Continues, The Twilight Zone, Seven Days, and The Evidence. In 2010, Chang plays "John, Chinese Boss" in Icarus, a new action film starring Dolph Lundgren.[10] He will portray the villainous Tokono king, Kanukami, in the upcoming Megami: Legacy for the Gods.[11]