Cheng Pei-pei, the legendary classic martial arts cinema star, passed away at age 78.

Her demise occurred on July 17, surrounded by family at her home, following a struggle with corticobasal degeneration, CNN reported.

Born in Shanghai in 1946, Cheng Pei-pei moved to Hong Kong during her teenage years. There, she began her artistic journey in ballet and enrolled in a performing arts course at the prestigious Shaw Brothers Studio.

Cheng's early roles included the 1964 historical drama "The Last Woman of Shang" and the romantic film "Lover's Rock." However, her breakthrough came with the 1966 film "Come Drink with Me," which earned her widespread acclaim.

Transition to American Cinema and Family Life

In 1971, Cheng relocated to the United States after marrying. She took a break from acting to raise her four children during this period. However, the marriage eventually divorced, prompting her to return to Hong Kong in the 1990s.

Upon her return, she continued to make significant impacts on the film industry. One of her most notable roles during this period was in the 2000 film "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," which won an Oscar.

Cheng Pei-pei's Illustrious Career and Private Battle

While continuing to act, Cheng kept her illness, corticobasal degeneration—a progressive neurological disorder—a private matter. She focused on her health and cherished time with her family, notably her grandchildren.

Her condition, known for severely impacting motor functions and cognitive abilities, has no cure. Her family and close associates respected Cheng's choice to keep her struggles private.

Enduring Legacy and Final Roles

Cheng's illustrious career spanned over six decades, marked by various roles showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her last acting role was in the 2020 live-action movie "Mulan," where she once again captivated audiences.

Reflecting on her career, Cheng once remarked in a 2015 interview with Time Out magazine, "I'm always up for a fight. It's exhilarating. I've always been active, so when I got a chance to act out fight scenes, I was happy to oblige."

The Family's Heartfelt Farewell

The family released a statement confirming her passing, expressing their deep sorrow and the peaceful nature of her departure. "It is with a heavy heart that we announce that the rumors are true. Our mother, Cheng Pei Pei, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones on July 17," the statement read.

"She chose not to make this news public so that she could deal with her condition in private and spend her remaining time with her children and grandchildren," the family added.

Global Mourning and Tributes

The film community and fans worldwide have expressed their condolences and shared tributes, celebrating her legacy as a pioneering figure in martial arts cinema.

"To all her friends, colleagues, and fans, thank you for all the support you showed her over the years. Our mom wanted to be remembered by how she was: the legendary Queen of Martial Arts… a versatile, award-winning actress whose film and television career spanned over six decades, not only in Asia but internationally as well," the family concluded in their statement.

In conclusion, Cheng Pei-pei's death marks the end of an era for martial arts cinema, but her legacy as the "Queen of Martial Arts" will endure through her extensive work, influencing future generations.