Cynthia Rothrock: Martial Artist, Action Movie Star
Cynthia Rothrock is an American martial artist and actress born in 1957. Known for her expertise in seven martial arts styles, she has been inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame and honored as the "Queen of Martial Arts." Rothrock made her film debut in the 1985 Hong Kong action film "Yes, Madam" and went on to star in numerous action movies in Hong Kong and the United States.
Rothrock's martial arts background began at age 13. As a world champion in forms and weapons, she holds black belts in Tang Soo Do, Taekwondo, Eagle Claw, Wushu, Northern Shaolin, Ng Ying Kungfu, and Pai Lum White Dragon Kung Fu. In addition to her competitive success, Rothrock has also taught martial arts and authored a book on dynamic kicks.
In her acting career, Rothrock became one of the first Western performers to become a star in the Hong Kong film industry. She starred in popular films such as "Millionaires Express," "The Inspector Wears Skirts," and "No Retreat, No Surrender 2." Rothrock also headlined American action films like "China O'Brien" and "Martial Law" in the 1990s.
Rothrock's impact extends beyond martial arts and film. She has been featured on the cover of Karate Illustrated three times, showcasing her accomplishments as a female martial artist. In 2022, she received the Martial Arts SuperShow "Lifetime Achievement Award" for her contributions to the field.
Rothrock continues to be an active martial artist and actress. She retired from acting in 2004 but later returned for roles in "Mercenaries" (2014) and "Santa's Summer House" (2012). In 2023, she produced, co-wrote, and starred in the upcoming film "Black Creek," a dark and gritty Western that highlights Rothrock's martial arts skills.