Abroad
'Ong Bak' actor & martial artist Tony Jaa, 50, has gallbladder cancer
He was diagnosed nearly two years ago.
February 05, 2026, 12:12 PM
Thai martial artist and actor Tony Jaa has reportedly been battling gallbladder cancer.
The 50-year-old, also known as Jaa Phanom, recently sparked concern after sharing photos and videos on Instagram in which he appeared noticeably slimmer.
Diagnosed nearly two years ago
According to Khaosod English, a person close to Jaa told local entertainment outlet Nine Entertain that he was diagnosed with stage three, nearing stage four, gallbladder cancer nearly two years ago.
The source said Jaa initially sought medical attention after experiencing severe abdominal pain, along with jaundice that affected his skin and eyes.
Doctors subsequently confirmed the cancer diagnosis.
He has since undergone surgery to remove the malignant tissue and is continuing to receive chemotherapy.
The source added that while Jaa remains under close medical supervision, his condition has improved significantly — he has regained his strength and now exercises daily.
Jaa’s family is reportedly taking good care of him, and more details are expected to be clarified by the actor and his family in due course.
Jaa's career
Jaa is a Thai martial artist, actor, action choreographer, stuntman and director.
He rose to international fame with the release of the Thai martial arts film Ong-Bak in 2003, followed by Tom-Yum-Goong in 2005, cementing his status as one of the country's most recognisable action stars.
His international film credits include Furious 7 (2015), xXx: Return of Xander Cage (2017), and Master Z: Ip Man Legacy (2018).
Top photos from @tonyjaaofficial/Instagram and @tonyjaaofficial/X
