The U.S. Postal Service Unveils a New Stamp Celebrating Bruce Lee's Legacy

U.S. Postal Service Celebrates Bruce Lee with New Stamp

On February 18, 2026, a remarkable event took place at the Nippon Kan Theater in Seattle, where the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) honored the legendary Bruce Lee by unveiling a new stamp featuring an iconic image of the martial artist's dramatic flying kick. This stamp is a tribute to Lee's profound influence as a pioneer for Asian Americans in Hollywood and an innovative martial artist.

Ben Kuo, the Senior Vice President of Facilities and Infrastructure at USPS, spoke passionately about Bruce Lee’s unique contributions to cinema and martial arts. He described Lee as "mesmerizing to watch," emphasizing how Lee's fighting style diverged from traditional performances. Kuo stated, "Unlike the theatrical, acrobatic kung fu that came before, Lee's movements were economical, explosive and real." Lee's ability to inspire and educate others was also highlighted, showing that his legacy extends far beyond action films.

The unveiling ceremony featured Lee's daughter, Shannon Lee, who expressed gratitude for the recognition and elaborated on her father's relentless pursuit of unity through martial arts. Her heartfelt comments emphasized how Bruce's life and legacy encourage individuals to break barriers and connect with one another. "His legacy is one of resilience, self-mastery, and flow that resonates and connects people across multiple demographics," said Shannon Lee, CEO of Bruce Lee Enterprises. "This stamp is a profoundly perfect touchpoint and a true honor."

Born in San Francisco on November 27, 1940, Bruce Lee showed his talent in martial arts from a young age. After moving to Hong Kong shortly after his birth, he began acting in films as a child, with his first lead role occurring when he was just 10 years old. Bruce adopted the moniker "Li Xiao Long" or "Lee the Little Dragon," a reference reflecting his astrological sign. As he grew older, Lee honed his skills as a martial artist, becoming an expert in Wing Chun and boxing, while juggling other interests like dance.

In 1959, he returned to the United States and began teaching martial arts alongside pursuing higher education at the University of Washington. His significant breakthrough came in 1964 when he opened a martial arts school in Oakland, California. The same year, his famous "one-inch punch" was showcased in karate competitions, solidifying his reputation.

Lee's transition into Hollywood was groundbreaking for the time. He secured his first major American role as Kato in the television series "The Green Hornet." Although the show was short-lived in the U.S., it gained massive popularity in Hong Kong, contributing to Lee's stardom.

The late 1960s and early 1970s marked the development of Lee's own martial arts philosophy, termed "Jeet Kune Do." This unique approach rejected the constraints of traditional martial arts, opting instead for a fluid and adaptable style. Lee’s work culminated in the 1972 release of "Enter the Dragon," a film that not only became a box office success but also a cultural milestone remembered to this day.

Tragically, Lee's life was cut short at the young age of 32 due to cerebral edema, just a month before the premiere of "Enter the Dragon." Despite his untimely death, Bruce Lee's legacy and impact continue to inspire countless individuals around the globe.

The design of the new stamp was conceived by art director Antonio Alcalá and features an egg tempera art piece by Kam Mak. The stamp’s black-and-white visuals, accented with a brush stroke of yellow, harken back to Lee's final film, "The Game of Death." Designed to resemble Lee's powerful kick, the composition creatively portrays the breaking of barriers while promoting the values Lee stood for.

The Bruce Lee stamp is available in panes of 20 and, as a Forever stamp, holds enduring value equal to the current First-Class Mail price. This new stamp serves not only as a tribute to a cultural icon but also as a symbol of the enduring spirit of resilience, bridging generations and communities through Bruce Lee's inspirational journey.

For more information about the stamp and to purchase, visit the USPS website or local post office. This mark of recognition for Bruce Lee as a true catalyst for social change resonates especially in today's diverse landscape, ensuring his legacy continues to thrive and inspire future generations.