Is Jet Li Sick? Fans Concerned As Martial Artist Posts Cryptic Hospital Photos On Social Media

Martial arts star Jet Li has recently reassured fans that he is okay after undergoing surgery to remove a benign tumour. The 62-year-old actor has posted footage from hospital showing himself in bed and being wheeled towards what appeared to be an operating theatre, prompting widespread speculation about his health.

The videos, shared on 17 August and labelled an 'unexpected challenge', quickly spread across Chinese and international social media platforms. While the images initially caused concern, Li later confirmed the procedure was minor and that he was recovering well.

Hospital Video Sparks Concern

In the first clip, uploaded to Douyin, China's version of TikTok, Li appeared connected to intravenous tubes, telling followers he had faced another 'unexpected challenge'. A second video showed him joking about wearing 'a fashionable little red hat' as he was taken down a corridor towards surgery.

The contrast between his light tone and the medical setting drew intense public attention. Millions of fans expressed concern online, while also praising his composure in a worrying situation, according to Hypemalaysia.

Benign Tumour Removed

Details were scarce at first, but Li later posted on Weibo comparing his body to 'hardware sent back to the factory for repairs' and urging people not to worry.

Industry sources added clarification. According to the Straits Times, Hong Kong producer Tiffany Chen, a close friend of Jet Li, told China Times that the surgery involved removing a small benign tumour.

While early reports from some outlets hinted at malignancy, subsequent coverage indicated that the growth was non-cancerous and had been successfully removed.

Recovery and Health Background

Li moved quickly to calm speculation. On 18 August, he shared a photo of himself eating knife-cut noodles and said he had been discharged from hospital. Friends and colleagues echoed that the procedure was short term and not serious.

The actor's health has attracted speculation for more than a decade. Since 2010, he has spoken publicly about living with hyperthyroidism, a condition that can cause fatigue, weight changes and cardiovascular complications if untreated. He has managed the illness with medication but has often faced false reports of severe decline or even premature death.

This latest incident renewed focus on his medical history but also demonstrated his willingness to address fans directly.

Global Legacy and Fan Response

Li remains one of the most recognised martial arts figures of his generation, with international credits including Hero, Fearless and Romeo Must Die. His work has long resonated with audiences in Britain as well as across Asia and the United States.

Following the hospital posts, fans expressed relief at his recovery and praised his humour and resilience. Supportive messages circulated widely, with many reflecting on the strength he has shown both on and off screen.

What Happened to Jet Li?

In response to the question raised by his hospital video, Li underwent routine surgery to remove a benign tumour and is now recovering. Combined with his long-term management of hyperthyroidism, the episode reflects the health challenges he has faced but also the resilience that continues to define his public life.

For his supporters, the sight of him smiling over noodles provided reassurance. Despite speculation, Jet Li remains active, positive and closely connected with the fans who have followed his career for more than four decades.