David Worth, the filmmaker whose work helped create two of the most iconic martial arts movies of the 1980s and launch Jean-Claude Van Damme to international stardom, has died.
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Worth died Sept. 7 at age 86.
Van Damme confirmed the news in an emotional tribute to his longtime friend and collaborator on Instagram.
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend David Worth," Van Damme wrote. "From Bloodsport to Kickboxer, David's talent and vision helped create two martial arts classics that changed my life.
"Thank you for your friendship and for the magic we made together. Rest in peace, my friend. You will always be part of my journey."
Worth served as cinematographer on 1988's "Bloodsport," the cult classic that became Van Damme's breakthrough starring vehicle. One year later, he co-directed "Kickboxer" alongside Mark DiSalle, again with Van Damme in the lead role.
Those two movies helped make Van Damme one of the biggest action stars of his generation.
Worth's career stretched well beyond their collaborations. He worked as a cinematographer on more than 20 movies, including Clint Eastwood's "Bronco Billy" and "Any Which Way You Can."
His directing credits included "Warrior of the Lost World," "Lady Dragon," "American Tigers" and multiple other action films.
But for generations of martial arts movie fans, Worth's legacy will forever be connected to two titles.
"Bloodsport." "Kickboxer."
And as Van Damme made clear, the man behind the camera helped change his life.
