Hong Kong film legend and martial arts icon Jackie Chan, 71, has revealed that he has already recorded a deeply personal “farewell song” that will only be released after his death, offering fans and loved ones a final message through music. This extraordinary revelation came at the Beijing premiere of his latest drama film Unexpected Family, where the legendary star opened up about life, ageing, loss, and his creative motivations.
Jackie Chan disclosed that the decision to record the farewell song was inspired by the passing of many friends and colleagues in recent years. These losses, he said, prompted him to reflect on life and the fragile nature of existence. Instead of hiding from these realities, Chan decided to capture his emotions and personal thoughts in a track meant to speak directly to his fans and family after he is gone.
“I feel that whatever I want to say, I should say now; whatever I want to do, I should do immediately,” Chan said, according to reporting by China.org.cn. Although he did not reveal any lyrics or the title of the song, he made it clear that performing it publicly now would be too emotional. When asked if he could sing part of it at the premiere, Chan joked that it would make people cry.
The farewell song will remain private and unreleased until Chan’s death, at the request of his family and management team. Chan’s announcement sparked a wave of discussion on social media platforms like Weibo and Instagram, where fans shared mixed emotions—some finding comfort in his openness and others expressing sadness at the thought of a future without him.
This announcement came alongside Chan’s discussion about his evolving career. In Unexpected Family, Chan takes on a dramatic role as an elderly man living with Alzheimer’s disease, showcasing his range beyond the action and kung fu roles that catapulted him to global fame. Chan said the role was meaningful and allowed him to explore deeper human experiences.
Despite preparing this deeply personal musical message, Chan remains active in the film industry and continues to pursue diverse projects. Upcoming work includes roles in the kung fu comedy Panda Plan 2 and the action sequel The Shadow’s Edge, both slated for future production.
Jackie Chan’s respectful decision to prepare a farewell song reflects a growing trend among entertainers who carefully craft their legacies. While many celebrities have released posthumous works in music or literature, Chan’s choice to create a farewell track that speaks from the heart underscores his unique connection with fans around the world.
As audiences continue to celebrate his long career—spanning more than 150 films and worldwide stardom—the farewell song promises to be a final, poignant reminder of Jackie Chan’s creative spirit and enduring impact on generations of filmgoers and music lovers alike.
