Childhood and Education Journey of Jackie Chan in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 24, 2026

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Jackie Chan. A timeline of key moments.

Jackie Chan, born Chan Kong-sang, is a highly influential Hong Kong martial artist, actor, and filmmaker. Renowned for his acrobatic fighting style, slapstick humor, comic timing, and daring stunts he performs himself, Chan has built a career spanning over six decades. He is considered one of cinema's most iconic and influential martial artists. His films have collectively grossed over $6 billion globally, solidifying his status as a major entertainment figure.

Sections (6)

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

1937: Father's work as a secret agent

Circa 1937, Chan's father, originally named Fang Daolong, worked as a secret agent for Lieutenant General Dai Li in Kuomintang-ruled China.

April 1954: Birth of Chan Kong-sang

On April 1954, Chan Kong-sang, also known as Fang Shilong and professionally as Jackie Chan and Sing Lung, was born in Hong Kong.

April 1954: Birth in British Hong Kong

On April 7, 1954, Chan Kong-sang was born in British Hong Kong to Charles and Lee-lee Chan, political refugees from the Chinese Civil War.

1960: Emigration of Father to Australia and Enrollment in China Drama Academy

In 1960, Jackie Chan's father emigrated to Canberra, Australia to work as a cook, and Jackie was sent to the China Drama Academy, a Peking Opera School.

1979: Directorial Debut with 'The Fearless Hyena'

In 1979, Jackie Chan made his directorial debut with 'The Fearless Hyena', which achieved box office success.

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1988: Founded Jackie Chan Charitable Foundation

In 1988, Jackie Chan founded the Jackie Chan Charitable Foundation to offer scholarships and aid to young people in Hong Kong and victims of natural disasters.

1989: Performed at Concert for Democracy in China

In 1989, Jackie Chan performed at the Concert for Democracy in China in support of democratic movement during the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests.

2005: Created Dragon's Heart Foundation

In 2005, Jackie Chan created the Dragon's Heart Foundation to help children and the elderly in remote areas of China.

June 2006: Pledge to Donate Assets to Charity

In June 2006, Jackie Chan pledged to donate half of his assets to charity upon his death, inspired by Warren Buffett and Bill Gates.

March 2008: Launch of Jackie Chan Science Centre

On March 10, 2008, Jackie Chan was the guest of honour for the launch of the Jackie Chan Science Centre at the Australian National University.

2009: Anti-Drug Ambassador

In 2009, Jackie Chan was named an "anti-drug ambassador" by the Chinese government, actively taking part in anti-drug campaigns.

April 2011: Artistes 311 Love Beyond Borders

On April 1, 2011, Jackie Chan headlined a charity concert titled Artistes 311 Love Beyond Borders to help with Japan's disaster recovery effort.

2011: Dragon's Heart Foundation Expands to Europe

In 2011, the Dragon's Heart Foundation expanded its reach from China to Europe, continuing to provide aid to children and the elderly.

June 2013: Responded to Death Hoax

On June 25, 2013, Jackie Chan responded to a hoax Facebook page that alleged he had died. He confirmed he was alive and well via a Facebook message.

2013: Served as Delegate to National Committee

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: Son's Arrest for Cannabis Use

In 2014, Jackie Chan's son Jaycee was arrested for cannabis use, leading Jackie Chan to express feelings of anger, shock, heartbreak, and shame. He urged young people to learn a lesson from Jaycee and stay away from drugs.

January 2017: Donation to Flood Victims in Thailand

In January 2017, Jackie Chan donated $65,000 to help flood victims in Thailand.

2019: Criticism of Hong Kong Protests

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