This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/26/2020
Bruce Lee kicked and punched his way into the American spotlight with his role as Kato in the 1966-1967 TV series, The Green Hornet. No one had ever seen anything like him before. Fast, deadly and diminutive, he was a visual promise of human potential. Yet, despite his formidable talents, he was largely snubbed by Hollywood. Financiers would put him in their shows and import his overseas film projects, but they would never invite him to their private parties. He stood alone in Hollywood society, separated by the prejudice of the age. But the martial arts arena embraced him as both Master and invincible opponent, and he chose this avenue to develop a very small area of American interest into an industry. He was the champion of champions, and before he died from a brain edema in 1973, Lee brought his fans "Enter the Dragon", his final completed film appearance before his death on July 20th. The film would premier nearly a month later on August 19th, 1973 and even with the hype surrounding the super-stars passing, it's considered to this day one of the greatest martial arts films of all time. With production started immediately by Warner Bros in 1972, there was a very short window of only months between production, promotion & Lee's passing where our next tremendous offering would have been signed by the Martial Art legend. In an iconic pose seen on the movie's cover, this 1973 dated 8" x 10" black & white promotional Warner Bros "Enter The Dragon" photograph features one of the hardest autographs in the hobby - Bruce Lee in black ballpoint below his right foot in excellent contrast. It's worth noting this is the only known 8" x 10" Enter the Dragon authenticated photograph we have ever seen! With all mentioned combined factors, it's not unreasonable to assume this was one of, if not the, last signed photograph ever graced by the ink of Bruce Lee. Overall in fine condition with minor handling wear to the edges, light speckling, minor staining, otherwise fine. Due to the cultural impact/importance of "Enter the Dragon" this offering spans just the scope of Lee collectors and should be seriously considered as a centerpiece for any entertainment/movie collectors collection! Authenticated with a full letter of authenticity from James Spence Authentication (JSA).