Jackie Chan credits an unlikely teacher for helping him learn English: country music. During his June 3 appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, the action star revealed that slow, heartfelt country songs played a major role in improving his language skills after moving to the U.S.
“When I came to America, I didn’t understand the directors. I always needed a dialogue coach,” the 71-year-old shared. “Then I started listening to country music — because it’s slow, I can follow.”
To prove his point, Chan serenaded the audience with the chorus of Willie Nelson’s “Always on My Mind,” earning thunderous applause and leaving Clarkson stunned. “I just got serenaded by Jackie Chan,” she laughed. “This is the best day ever.”
The song, famously covered by Nelson in 1982, has a legacy of its own, but now holds new meaning for Chan — it was part of his journey toward fluency and confidence in Hollywood.
Chan appeared on the show alongside Karate Kid: Legends co-stars Ralph Macchio and Ben Wang. Macchio proudly announced he earned his black belt after 41 years with the franchise, while the trio promoted the latest installment of the beloved martial arts saga, now playing in theaters.
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