Movie star Jet Li is looking a bit different these days.
Recent photos of the film actor and martial artist went viral on social media as fans expressed concern about his health.
Some were even praying for his speedy recovery.
Li has mostly worked in the Asian film market for the last few years. His last American movie was 2014’s “The Expendables 3.”
Though many were concerned for Li’s health — and he is looking drastically different — the actor’s manager released a statement saying Li is doing just fine, though he has been suffering from hyperthyroidism.
Is that Jet Li? Alleged photos of actor in Tibet fuel speculation about his poor health https://t.co/8JEM0gtF0f pic.twitter.com/23OG2MN65f
— The Straits Times (@STcom) May 20, 2018
So, apparently, Jet Li is suffering from "hyperthyroidism and spinal problems" and this is him now ❤️?: pic.twitter.com/Ss0W2EL96D
— s (@stxnaty) May 19, 2018
Hope Jet Li gets and stays well. Had no idea about his condition till now. Take this moment to appreciate people who suffer for their art (notice, THEY suffer, not make others suffer. HUGE difference). HERO is one of my favorite movies of all time. Man is an icon.
— Z (@ZTheJustOK) May 19, 2018
“He has hyperthyroidism that he’s been dealing with for almost 10 years. It’s nothing life-threatening, and he’s dealing with it,” Li’s manager, Steven Chasman, told The Washington Post.
He also provided pictures of Li looking happy and healthy.
Hyperthyroidism causes fatigue and weight loss, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. One out of every 100 people in the United States suffers from the disease. The disease occurs when “the thyroid gland makes more thyroid hormone than your body needs,” according to the same institute.
The quick and startled reactions to new photos of Li show how little entertainment fans want stars to age. Maybe people forget: Jet Li is a 55-year-old man. He looks incredible for his age even in these new photos.
He’s likely sacrificed a lot for his art and the stunts he performs, so here’s hoping the hyperthyroidism doesn’t hold him back too much, and he can still have some fun on the big screen in the near future.
Li will reportedly next star in the live action remake of the Disney classic “Mulan.”
“Expendables 4” was also recently announced — and the franchise favorite would no doubt be welcomed back in any capacity with open arms.
PopZette editor Zachary Leeman can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter.
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