Bruce Lee

A Life

By: Matthew Polly

Narrated by: Jonathan Todd Ross

The “definitive” (The New York Times) biography of film legend Bruce Lee—the martial arts icon who made kung fu a global phenomenon, shattered Hollywood stereotypes of Asian and Asian American actors, and became one of the most influential pop culture figures of the 20th century.

Forty-five years after Bruce Lee’s sudden death at just thirty-two, journalist and bestselling author Matthew Polly delivers the authoritative account of his extraordinary life and legacy. Meticulously researched over a decade and informed by more than one hundred interviews—including with Lee’s family, friends, colleagues, and the actress in whose bed he died—Bruce Lee is both sweeping and intimate.

Polly traces Lee’s evolution from Hong Kong child star to troubled teen, from charismatic martial arts teacher to trailblazing Asian American actor navigating a whitewashed Hollywood, to international superstar in Enter the Dragon, Fist of Fury, and The Big Boss. He explores Lee’s family dynamics, his struggle to break through in the US entertainment industry, his intense work ethic, and the enduring mystery surrounding his untimely death.

Dispelling myths and revealing the man behind the legend, Bruce Lee is a deeply humanizing, page-turning biography of a boundary-breaking actor, father, fighter, and icon whose cultural impact endures across generations and continents.

Ever Want to Meet Bruce Lee?

This is as close as we’ll ever get to meeting Bruce Lee. I’ve watched and read countless biographies on Bruce Lee and this is the only time I’ve ever come away feeling like I got to really “know” the man. This biography goes past the lengend and the gossip and show the man on his journey, warts and all.

This accounting of Bruce Lee’s life felt, real, sincere, and honest. Thanks Matthew Polly!

The narrator was no slouch either. His narration is like a great special effect, you didn’t know there was one. The biography was read simply, and I REALLY appreciated his pronunciation of Chinese words. Not try-hard, but not annoyingly English. The narrator didn’t make it about his performance, he simply performed it. Thanks Johnathan Ross!

Bruce is an inspiration

This is a very in depth look into who brought martial arts movies to the mainstream. Bruce Lee's story is one of triumph and tragedy. He knew what he wanted in life and went after it. Yes, he was not perfect but his ideals about personal goals, diversity among people and perseverance are incredible. Do yourself a favor, listen to this book and then check out The Big Boss, the movie that started Bruce Lee's life becoming legendary.

Fascinating!!

Getting educated on just how impactful this man was o. the WORLD was a pleasant surprise. While delving into the darker side of BL, this book sheds light on all aspects of his life and presents the only plausible cause of his death that I can get behind. The book is a great listen and the voice talent doesn't take away from the story.

A must read for all Bruce Lee fans

I’ve been a fan of Bruce Lee since he was Kati in the Green Hornet. This audiobook book helped fill in some gaps and provides lots of fascinating facts. The story is well written told. I highly recommend it.

Ubiquitous Kung Fu Master

I felt this book was an awesome transparent account of the life of Bruce Lee. The book recounts the resilience of Bruce's character and gives hidden unknown details of his complex life as he rises to the ranks of a Ubiquitous Kung Fu Master and Hollywood Superstar.