Major Controversies Surrounding Jackie Chan: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Jackie Chan.

Jackie Chan, born Fang Shilong, is a Hong Kong martial artist, actor, and filmmaker. He's celebrated for his acrobatic fighting style, slapstick comedy, and innovative stunt work, which he famously performs himself. His film career spans over six decades, establishing him as an iconic and influential figure in martial arts cinema. Chan's films have collectively grossed over $6 billion globally, underscoring his widespread appeal and box-office success.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

January 1999: Birth of Etta Ng Chok Lam and Affair Revelation

In January 1999, Jackie Chan's extramarital affair with Elaine Ng Yi-Lei resulted in the birth of their daughter, Etta Ng Chok Lam. Shortly before Etta's birth, Elaine publicly revealed Jackie Chan as the father, causing a scandal.

March 2004: Chan refers to Taiwanese presidential election as 'the biggest joke in the world'

During a news conference in Shanghai on 28 March 2004, Jackie Chan referred to the recently concluded 2004 Taiwanese presidential election as "the biggest joke in the world".

June 2008: Protests against Chan at Taipei airport

In June 2008, police and security personnel separated Jackie Chan from scores of protesters shouting "Jackie Chan, get out" when he arrived at Taipei airport.

2008: Chan speaks out against demonstrators disrupting the Olympic torch relay

Referring to his participation in the torch relay for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, Jackie Chan spoke out against demonstrators who disrupted the relay several times attempting to draw attention to grievances against the Chinese government.

April 2009: Comments at Boao Forum

In April 2009, during a panel discussion at the annual Boao Forum for Asia, Jackie Chan questioned whether broad freedom is a good thing, suggesting Chinese people need to be controlled, which prompted angry responses from figures in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

2010: Jackie Chan Curse Originates

In 2010, the Jackie Chan curse gained traction due to defective products endorsed by Jackie Chan in China, leading to the belief that his endorsements bring setbacks.

December 2012: Criticism of Hong Kong and the United States

In December 2012, Jackie Chan criticized Hong Kong as a "city of protest" and suggested limiting demonstrators' rights. He also stated that the United States was the "most corrupt" country, which angered parts of the online community.

2013: Chan becomes a pro-China politician

Since 2013, Jackie Chan has been a pro-China politician, having served two terms as a delegate to the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, China's political advisory body.

2014: Chan reacts to his son's arrest for cannabis use

In 2014, when his own son Jaycee was arrested for cannabis use, Jackie Chan expressed his feelings of anger, shock, heartbreak, and shame. He hoped young people would learn a lesson from Jaycee.

April 2016: Named in Panama Papers

In April 2016, Jackie Chan was named in the Panama Papers for having up to six different offshore accounts, likely for tax shelters, though he was not accused of any illegal activity.

2016: Jackie Chan Curse Blamed for California Fitness Failure

In 2016, the failure of the fitness chain California Fitness was attributed to the "Jackie Chan curse".

2017: Chan refuses to provide assistance to his daughter

In 2017, Jackie Chan reportedly refused to provide financial assistance to his daughter Etta Ng Chok Lam, according to her lawyer. In 2017, when asked about her coming out as lesbian, he replied: "As long as she's happy."

2019: Criticism of Hong Kong Anti-Extradition Bill Protests

In 2019, Jackie Chan criticized the Hong Kong anti-extradition bill protests and supported the National People's Congress decision on Hong Kong national security legislation.

2021: Chan expresses desire to join the Chinese Communist Party

By 2021, in contrast to his earlier pro-democratic stance, Jackie Chan expressed his desire to join the Chinese Communist Party.

2021: Jackie Chan Curse Invoked After Evergrande Losses

In 2021, the "Jackie Chan curse" was again invoked when Evergrande Group suffered major losses following Chan's promotion of Evergrande Spring brand bottled water.