Bruce Lee (traitional Chinese: 李小龍; simplified Chinese: 李小龙; pinyin: Lǐ Xiǎolóng; Cantonese Yale: Léih Síulùhng; November 27, 1940 – July 20, 1973) was an American-born martial artist, philosopher, instructor, martial arts actor and the founder of the Jeet Kune Do combat philosophy, widely regarded as the most influential martial artist of the twentieth century and a cultural icon. He was the father of actor Brandon Lee and of actress Shannon Lee.