Zhenwei Wang Biography

Zhenwei Wang, a Chinese actor and martial artist, hails from Handan, Qiuxian, Hebei, China, but relocated to Beijing as a child to pursue a better education. At four and a half years old, Zhenwei’s father enrolled him in the Beijing Shenshahai/Beijing Shichahai Amateur Sports School due to his son’s frail health. Despite his youth, Zhenwei exhibited remarkable dedication during practice sessions and demonstrated a steadfast commitment to his craft. His unwavering work ethic paid off in the form of recognition and accolades within the wushu industry, which lauded his exceptional martial arts prowess and unyielding determination.

The search for actors to star in The Karate Kid began in July 2009, with a specific requirement for a teenage martial artist. The vice-director of the filming team, together with Jackie Chan’s assistant, conducted auditions in China’s martial arts schools. Approximately ten thousand contestants from the Beijing Film Academy were selected to participate in the audition, which was a rigorous process that tested various aspects such as English fluency, wushu skills, physical appearance, acting facial expressions, and control over eye expressions.

After a gruelling three-month audition process, Zhenwei emerged as the successful candidate to portray Cheng in The Karate Kid. Despite facing numerous challenges, he overcame all difficulties and secured the coveted role. However, during filming, Zhenwei sustained a head injury while chasing Jaden Smith, who played Dre Parker, after being splashed with dirty water. He collided with an oil pail and required four stitches to recover.