Diana Lee Inosanto is an American actress, director, stuntwoman, and martial artist. She was born in Torrance, California and raised in Carson and Harbor City, California. She attended Narbonne High School. Inosanto comes from a martial arts family, with her father being Dan Inosanto, a renowned martial artist and student of Jeet Kune Do founder Bruce Lee. In fact, Bruce Lee was also her godfather. Growing up, Inosanto immersed herself in the martial arts world and studied various forms, including Jeet Kune Do and Eskrima, under her father’s guidance.
Inosanto’s accomplishments in the martial arts world have earned her recognition and respect. She has appeared on the cover of numerous martial arts magazines, including Black Belt Magazine, Martial Arts, Inside Karate, Self Defense, and Inside Kung Fu. In 2009, she was named Woman of the Year by Black Belt Magazine, a testament to her skill and dedication.
Apart from her martial arts expertise, Inosanto has also made her mark in the film and television industry. She has worked as a stuntwoman and choreographer in numerous productions. Her talent and skills have been seen in popular movies and TV shows such as Barb Wire, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Face/Off, and Blade. In 2008, she made her directorial debut with the film The Sensei. In 2020, she appeared in one episode of Disney’s The Mandalorian as Magistrate Morgan Elsbeth.
Inosanto is not only involved in the world of film and television but also actively participates in Southern California theater. She is a member of the Asian American theater group Lodestone Theatre Ensemble. In 2008, she served as the martial arts choreographer for the world premiere of Dan Kwong’s play Be Like Water at East West Players.
In addition to her involvement in the entertainment industry, Inosanto is also a writer. In 2020, she published her first book, a children’s story titled The Curious Mind of Sebastian. She also contributed a foreword to the Fiaz Rafiq book Bruce Lee: The Life of a Legend in the same year.
Overall, Diana Lee Inosanto’s contribution to the martial arts, film and television, and literary worlds has been significant. Her skills and talent, combined with her dedication and passion, have solidified her place as a respected figure in these industries. Through her work, she continues to inspire and empower others, making her an influential figure in women’s history.
Awards:
– Woman of the Year by Black Belt Magazine (2009)