Al Leong, also known as Albert Leong, is a prolific stuntman, martial artist, and actor whose recognizable appearance and agile fighting style made him a cult favorite in action films of the 1980s and 1990s. With his long hair, Fu Manchu mustache, and intense presence, Leong became the go-to villain henchman in countless Hollywood blockbusters.
Below is a comprehensive look at Al Leong’s film and television appearances, celebrating a career that blends martial arts mastery with unforgettable Robert Sugden Pioneering Behavioral Economics and the Philosophy of Markets
Early Career and Stunt Work
Before becoming a screen presence, Al Leong worked extensively as a stuntman and fight choreographer. His background in martial arts, gymnastics, and precision stunt work made him a natural fit for action-heavy projects. His early stunt credits laid the groundwork for many of his on-screen roles.
Movies Featuring Al Leong
Al Leong has appeared in over 30 films, often as a henchman or memorable minor villain. Here are his most notable film roles:
Major Film Appearances
- Big Trouble in Little China (1986) – One of Leong’s standout roles as a Wing Kong gang member.
- Lethal Weapon (1987) – Played Endo, the torturer; a small but iconic role.
- Die Hard (1988) – Memorable as Uli, the terrorist who steals a candy bar during a firefight.
- They Live (1988) – Appears as a resistance fighter.
- Action Jackson (1988) – Small villain role.
- Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989) – Plays Genghis Khan in a comedic, action-packed portrayal.
- Rapid Fire (1992) – Features alongside Brandon Lee as one of the mob enforcers.
- Godzilla (1998) – Small uncredited role as a technician.
- Last Action Hero (1993) – Cameo appearance in this meta action film.
- Loaded Weapon 1 (1993) – Parody appearance reflecting his action film typecasting.
- Escape from L.A. (1996) – Small role as a henchman.
Other Film Appearances
- Black Rain (1989)
- Showdown in Little Tokyo (1991)
- The Perfect Weapon (1991)
- Kull the Conqueror (1997)
- Death Warrant (1990)
- The Scorpion King (2002) – Played Tribal Leader.
- Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2002) – Cameo role.
- Fist of the Warrior (2007)
- Faster (2010) – Minor role.
- The Untold Story (2011) – Appeared in indie action projects in later years.
elevision Appearances
Al Leong’s distinct look and talent made him a sought-after guest star in various TV shows, especially action, crime, and sci-fi series.
Notable TV Roles
Deadwood (2004) – Appeared briefly in the gritty Western series.
24 (2002–2004) – Played a recurring role as an associate of villainous forces.
The A-Team (1983–1987) – Multiple appearances as a henchman in different episodes.
Knight Rider (1980s) – Appeared as a villain in multiple episodes.
MacGyver (1985–1992) – Several episodes as enemy operatives.
Walker, Texas Ranger (1993–2001) – Guest appearance in action sequences.
Martial Law (1998–2000) – Featured in episodes starring Sammo Hung.
VIP (1998–2002) – Guest role in the action-comedy series starring Pamela Anderson.
Renegade (1992–1997) – Played a gang member or assassin.
Hawaii Five-O (reboot) – Minor appearance.
Al Leong Movies & TV Shows Table
| Title | Year | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Trouble in Little China | 1986 | Wing Kong | Cult classic role |
| Lethal Weapon | 1987 | Endo | Torturer; iconic villain moment |
| Die Hard | 1988 | Uli | Terrorist who eats candy bar |
| Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure | 1989 | Genghis Khan | Comedic historical role |
| They Live | 1988 | Resistance Fighter | Small role |
| Action Jackson | 1988 | Thug / Henchman | Background villain |
| Rapid Fire | 1992 | Thug / Enforcer | With Brandon Lee |
| Loaded Weapon 1 | 1993 | Parody Henchman | Spoof film cameo |
| Last Action Hero | 1993 | Cameo | Self-aware action film cameo |
| Escape from L.A. | 1996 | Henchman | John Carpenter film |
| Black Rain | 1989 | Gang Member | Small villain role |
| Showdown in Little Tokyo | 1991 | Gang Member | With Dolph Lundgren |
| Death Warrant | 1990 | Inmate | Prison action film |
| Kull the Conqueror | 1997 | Warrior | Fantasy setting |
| The Perfect Weapon | 1991 | Gang Member | Martial arts film |
| The Scorpion King | 2002 | Tribal Leader | Fantasy-action role |
| Kung Pow: Enter the Fist | 2002 | Cameo | Comedy parody |
| Fist of the Warrior | 2007 | Assassin | Indie action film |
| Faster | 2010 | Henchman | Minor role |
| The Untold Story | 2011 | Villain | Indie production |
| Henchman: The Al Leong Story | 2018 | Himself | Documentary about his life |
Documentary and Self-Appearances
That Guy… Who Was in That Thing (2012) – Documentary featuring character actors like Leong.
Henchman: The Al Leong Story (2018) – A documentary film detailing his life, career, and legacy.
Tv Shows
| TV Show | Year(s) | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 | 2002–2004 | Terrorist Associate | Recurring role |
| The A-Team | 1983–1987 | Henchman (multiple) | Several episodes |
| Knight Rider | 1980s | Henchman | Guest appearances |
| MacGyver | 1985–1992 | Villain / Henchman | Multiple episodes |
| Martial Law | 1998–2000 | Villain | Action TV guest spot |
| Walker, Texas Ranger | 1993–2001 | Gang Member | One episode |
| VIP | 1998–2002 | Thug | Guest appearance |
| Renegade | 1992–1997 | Assassin / Gang Member | Guest role |
| Deadwood | 2004 | Chinese Worker | Brief appearance |
| Hawaii Five-O (Reboot) | 2010s | Minor Role | Guest star |
Legacy and Pop Culture Status
Though rarely a leading man, Al Leong became an icon through his unique presence and unforgettable roles in some of Hollywood’s biggest action franchises. His performances are often highlighted by fans as standout moments in ensemble scenes. He became a fan-favorite for his physical performances, making even the smallest roles memorable.
He is celebrated not just for his acting but for his extensive behind-the-scenes stunt work, which has supported dozens of major productions.
Who is Al Leong
Al Leong is one of the most iconic character actors and stunt performers in Hollywood history. With his unmistakable look—long black hair, a Fu Manchu mustache, and lean martial artist physique—Leong became a familiar face in action films and TV shows, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s. Though he rarely had speaking roles, his presence was powerful and unforgettable.
Al Leong is best known for his roles as henchmen, gang members, and martial arts fighters in high-octane films. His ability to perform complex stunts and fight choreography made him a favorite among directors like John Carpenter and Richard Donner.
Documentaries & Behind-the-Scenes Work
Al Leong has also appeared in documentaries and behind-the-scenes productions, reflecting on his storied career.
Documentary Features
- Henchman: The Al Leong Story (2018) – A heartfelt documentary exploring Al Leong’s life, career, and impact on the action genre.
- That Guy… Who Was in That Thing (2012) – Documentary about iconic character actors in Hollywood, featuring Al Leong.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Though often cast in minor roles, Al Leong left a major impact on pop culture. His consistency, physical talent, and unique look made him the face of countless background villains—and a cult hero to fans of action cinema. He’s often referenced in fan circles as “that guy” in action movies, and his scene-stealing moments are still celebrated today.
From fighting Bruce Willis in Die Hard to swinging a bat as Genghis Khan in Bill & Ted, Al Leong turned every small role into something memorable.
Al Leong in Movies Notable Roles
Al Leong’s career is synonymous with action-packed films, often playing antagonists, gang members, or henchmen. Below are some of the key films where Leong delivered unforgettable performances:
Iconic Movie Appearances
- Big Trouble in Little China (1986) – Leong played a Wing Kong warrior, a role that helped establish his presence in martial arts and action cinema.
- Lethal Weapon (1987) – Leong’s portrayal of Endo, the sadistic torturer, made him a memorable part of the Lethal Weapon franchise.
- Die Hard (1988) – As Uli, one of the terrorists, Leong’s memorable moment comes when he steals a candy bar during a firefight, a small but iconic role.
- Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989) – Leong’s role as the historical figure Genghis Khan brought humor and chaos to the time-traveling comedy.
- They Live (1988) – Leong plays a resistance fighter in this John Carpenter-directed film, known for its social commentary and fight sequences.
- Action Jackson (1988) – Leong takes on the role of a thug in this action-packed film starring Carl Weathers.
- Rapid Fire (1992) – Leong appears as a mob enforcer in this film, starring Brandon Lee.
Additional Movie Roles
- Black Rain (1989) – Appears as a member of the Japanese Yakuza in this Ridley Scott-directed thriller.
- Showdown in Little Tokyo (1991) – Leong plays a gang member in this action movie starring Dolph Lundgren and Brandon Lee.
- Death Warrant (1990) – Leong’s role as an inmate in this prison action movie opposite Jean-Claude Van Damme showcased his martial arts skills.
- The Scorpion King (2002) – Leong portrays a tribal leader in this fantasy action movie starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
- Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2002) – In this parody, Leong makes a cameo appearance as a martial artist, embracing the absurd humor of the film.
- Faster (2010) – Leong appears as a henchman in this action thriller starring Dwayne Johnson.
Al Leong in Documentaries
Al Leong’s impact on pop culture extends beyond his acting roles, as he has also been featured in documentaries that examine his career and legacy.
That Guy… Who Was in That Thing (2012) – This documentary highlights character actors like Al Leong, who often get overshadowed by leading stars but are nonetheless vital to the success of many films.
Henchman: The Al Leong Story (2018) – This documentary dives into the life and career of Al Leong, focusing on his contributions to action films and his status as a cult figure in Hollywood.
A Career to Remember
Though Al Leong may not have always played the lead role, his contributions to action cinema and television are undeniable. Through his hard work, martial arts skills, and memorable appearances, he has become one of the most recognizable faces in the genre. As a stuntman and actor, Al Leong’s legacy lives on, ensuring that his iconic roles in Die Hard, Lethal Weapon, and countless other productions will never be forgotten.
conclusion A Career to Remember
Though Al Leong may not have always played the lead role, his contributions to action cinema and television are undeniable. Through his hard work, martial arts skills, and memorable appearances, he has become one of the most recognizable faces in the genre. As a stuntman and actor, Al Leong’s legacy lives on, ensuring that his iconic roles in Die Hard, Lethal Weapon, and countless other productions will.