03/09/2024
Keye Luke (June 18, 1904 – January 12, 1991) was a distinguished Chinese-American actor, technical advisor, and artist, celebrated for his significant contributions to film and television. As a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild, he was a trailblazer in Hollywood.
Luke is best remembered for his role as Lee Chan, the "Number One Son," in the Charlie Chan film series, as well as his portrayal of the original Kato in the 1939–1941 Green Hornet serials. His versatility extended to voice work, where he voiced Brak in the 1960s Space Ghost cartoons, and he made a memorable appearance as Master Po in the television series Kung Fu. Additionally, Luke played Mr. Wing in the Gremlins films.
Notably, he was the first Chinese-American contract player signed by major studios such as RKO, Universal Pictures, and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, marking him as one of the most prominent Asian actors in American cinema during the mid-20th century.
Keye Luke (June 18, 1904 – January 12, 1991) was a distinguished Chinese-American actor, technical advisor, and artist, celebrated for his significant contributions to film and television. As a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild, he was a trailblazer in Hollywood.
Luke is best remembered for his role as Lee Chan, the "Number One Son," in the Charlie Chan film series, as well as his portrayal of the original Kato in the 1939–1941 Green Hornet serials. His versatility extended to voice work, where he voiced Brak in the 1960s Space Ghost cartoons, and he made a memorable appearance as Master Po in the television series Kung Fu. Additionally, Luke played Mr. Wing in the Gremlins films.
Notably, he was the first Chinese-American contract player signed by major studios such as RKO, Universal Pictures, and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, marking him as one of the most prominent Asian actors in American cinema during the mid-20th century.