Action superstar Jet Li recently opened up about his perspective on death and the reason he chooses not to attend funerals.
In an interview with Chinese magazine Sanlian Lifeweek, Li, 62, shared that he has come to terms with the impermanence of life, viewing it as a natural and inevitable part of the human experience.
When asked if he ever felt sorrow or regret after losing a loved one, the reclusive actor – who has been plagued by rumours of death for years – replied: “Why should we feel sad or regretful? I believe such emotions only exist for avatars trapped in a game.”
Li went on to elaborate, adding that in many dramas, characters often express regret over not meeting someone for the last time or failing to fulfill their final wishes before death.
He also spoke about the reason he doesn’t attend funerals, saying: “When people around me pass away, others may be used to mourning, but I personally don’t attend funerals.”
The Expendables star added: “Some say I’m heartless or have no feelings, but I always tell them no one gets through life without losing a loved one.”
On the subject of life and death, Li revealed that his youngest daughter Jada, 22, battled depression at the age of 19 and even grappled with suicidal thoughts.
After her recovery, Li and Jada sat down for an open conversation about afterlife arrangements – a topic neither of them viewed as taboo.
“We were very honest about it because (death) is inevitable,” he shared.
Li also encouraged everyone to live life to the fullest and treasure each moment, rather than dwelling on the fear of death.
“If I know I’m going to die, should I spend every day worrying about it, or should I cherish each moment? I believe living each day to the fullest is far more important,” he said.
Those suffering from mental health issues or contemplating suicide can reach out to the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp); Jakim's Family, Social and Community care centre (011-1959 8214 on WhatsApp); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929, go to www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers and operating hours, or email sam@befrienders.org.my)
