It wasn’t all that long ago that Jet Li was one of the most recognized action stars on the planet.
We suppose that’s why so many on social media are expressing their shock over the actor and stunt specialist’s comparatively frail appearance nowadays.
That’s Li on the right, and as you can see, it’s somewhat difficult to believe that the 55-year-old was still starring in stunt spectaculars like The Expendables 3 just four short years ago.
The photo above was posted by Twitter user Simón, who captioned it:
“So, apparently, Jet Li is suffering from ‘hyperthyroidism and spinal problems’ and this is him now.”
He later added:
“Jackie Chan and Jet Li were like Gods to me when I was little. It’s so sad to see Li like this.”
Li mostly keeps a low profile these days, but sources close to the actor have confirmed that he is still battling hyperthyroidism.
According to TMZ, Li also suffered numerous “serious leg and spine injuries” during his career.
In recent years, Li’s condition has reportedly deteriorated to the point that he finds it difficult to stand for long periods of time.
Li first revealed that he’s been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism back in 2013.
“I’m in pain, but I’m not suffering. I’m happy,” Li said in an interview at the time.
Aside from his appearance in The Expendables 3 and the occasional social media post, he has apparently steered clear of the spotlight as much as possible over the past five years.
Today, fans from all over the globe are sending thoughts and prayers to Li and his family.
While the father of four has turned away from acting in recent years, he clearly still enjoys the support of a very loyal fan base.
For many, the reactions to Li’s appearance brings to mind the shock with which fans responded to photos of actor Val Kilmer looking frail after battling cancer.
Like Li, Kilmer was an icon of strength and swagger for those who came of age in the 1990s and early-2000s.
And in both cases, one gets the impression that the stars were so convincing in their portrayals of invincible heroes that any reminder of their mortality is bound to be greeted with astonishment.
These days, Kilmer s reportedly cancer-free and considering a return to acting.
Here’s hoping Li’s treatment meets with similar success.
Our thoughts go out to the action icon and his family during this difficult time.