Action star Tony Jaa battling gallbladder cancer

2026-02-04 - 12:46

Bangkok — Fans have poured in messages of support for Thai action star Tony Jaa, also known as Jaa Phanom, after it emerged that he has been battling gallbladder cancer. Concerns grew after the 49-year-old actor recently shared photos on Instagram showing a noticeably slimmer appearance. A person close to Tony Jaa later told Nine Entertain that he was diagnosed with stage three, nearing stage four, gallbladder cancer nearly two years ago. According to the source, Tony Jaa first sought medical treatment after suffering severe abdominal pain, along with jaundice affecting his skin and eyes. Doctors later confirmed gallbladder cancer. He has since undergone surgery to remove the malignant tissue and has been receiving chemotherapy on an ongoing basis. The source said his overall condition has improved significantly, adding that Tony Jaa is now stronger and exercises daily, though he remains under close medical supervision. His family is said to be taking good care of him, while further details are expected to be clarified by Tony Jaa and his family themselves. Tony Jaa rose to international fame with Ong-Bak (2003) and later Tom-Yum-Goong (2005), establishing himself as one of Thailand’s most recognisable action stars. His international credits include Furious 7 (2015), xXx: Return of Xander Cage (2017), Paradox (2017), Master Z: Ip Man Legacy (2018), Triple Threat (2019) and Detective Chinatown 3 (2021).