Jet Li responds to blood rejuvenation rumours, reveals struggles with hyperthyroidism

Martial arts superstar Jet Li, who has been plagued by health rumors in recent years, recently participated in a spiritual talk show where he humorously addressed the bizarre conspiracy theories circulating online about his supposed "rejuvenation." At 62, Li appeared with a healthy, ruddy complexion and in good spirits, a stark contrast to the aged and haggard look he had previously displayed. He clarified that his earlier frail appearance was due to being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism in 2013. Facing life and death, he stated he never worries about dying; instead, he believes that "longevity" without purpose, dragging along an aging body, is a form of torture.

Regarding the various "rejuvenation" conspiracy theories online, Li humorously addressed them one by one. "Some people say I had a heart transplant. I'm not sick, why would I need a heart transplant? Others say I drink children's blood—that's pretty cruel. Some also say I keep little ghosts [for black magic]. I want to ask, why would I keep little ghosts?" He even quipped sarcastically, "They also say I eat children. How would I eat them? Stewed or braised? You really find all kinds of things on the internet!"

He explained that the so-called "rejuvenation" actually stems from a misunderstanding. After being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism in 2013, he once looked aged and gaunt due to the illness. In August last year, he underwent surgery to remove a benign tumor on his neck. At the time, he shared photos on social media, joking that "some hardware had issues and went back to the factory for repairs." After the surgery, he dyed his hair black and his mental state greatly improved. He never expected netizens to over-interpret this as "rejuvenation," sparking all sorts of baseless speculation, which he found both amusing and baffling.

Taking Life and Death Lightly, Not Longing for Longevity

"Don't think that just because I'm a 'kung fu superstar,' I'm not human," Li said calmly. "I have to undergo surgery, I get sick, I need regular check-ups—there's no difference between you and me." He takes a philosophical view of life and death, stating his biggest fear is actually "not being able to die." "The physical body dies, but reincarnation comes again. There's always this confusion I can't quite grasp."

Having gone through a serious illness himself, and with his daughter also suffering from depression, Li took the opportunity to express gratitude to his wife for silently supporting the family in her own way during those difficult times, never making a fuss.

Li admits that the pressure of being an actor brought him more stress than happiness. He no longer has any dreams he pursues but is willing to contribute to preserving kung fu cinema. For him now, living in the moment, cherishing life, and approaching the end with utmost sincerity are the most important things. Even if future technology advances to allow humans to live to 150, he's not interested. "If it's with this body I have now in my sixties? No thanks. My back hurts at the slightest thing." In his view, without goals or direction, that kind of "longevity" is actually a form of torture.