Growing up in Queens, New York as Lloyd Hutchinson, he partook in some low budget films before, after a visit to Hong Kong, he was signed by Ng See-Yuen with aspirations as a new martial arts / action superstar, in consideration of his muscular build and also a slight resemblance to Jackie Chan. Ng re-christened him with the Chinese Name "Lee Yuen-Ba" and, in consultation with his then-business associate Roy Horan, gave him the 'screen name' of Conan Lee; CONAN was a reference to the popular Conan the Barbarian franchise (and Lloyd's own physique); LEE was in homage to legendary martial artist and film actor Bruce Lee.
He is best known for his roles in cult Kung Fu/Ninja hybrid favorite "Ninja in the Dragon's Den" alongside popular Japanese actor Hiroyuki Sanada, and the Crime / Comedy buddy cop film "Tiger on the Beat" with Chow Yun Fat.
While the sequel to the latter film, "Tiger on the Beat 2", was not as successful, it is nonetheless remembered for a stunt of Jackie Chan-esque proportions; Conan was to jump from an elevated pedestrian crossing (above a highway) onto a flagpole with the intent of sliding down, in pursuit of a criminal. He was unable to manage a steady grasp of the pole as it swung under the weight and was thrown off onto the ground from a significant height. This delayed production for weeks due to sustained injuries. The take featured in the film is the erroneous stunt, as it occurred.
Personal and business issues primarily involving Ng (and his hype machine) prematurely ended Conan's contract, and subsequently, his potential for stardom in the Asian film industry. He continued to manage on-screen roles though, mainly in supporting or minor roles, through the late 80s and well into the 1990s, including a role as "RAMBO" in "Aces Go Places V" and a supporting role in action/thriller "New York Cop" alongside cult Japanese actor Tôru Nakamura. A notable film worth of mention in conclusion is a starring role in an Asian action/thriller called "Fury in Red", which was re-edited and re-released in specific regions of the world as "Eastern Heroes", due to its violent nature.
Several online film databases, with supporting promotional material, mention a film called "Carjack" from 1996 which Conan wrote, directed, and starred in. Alternatively known as "Rumble in L.A.", no widely circulating VHS or DVD print is available, although as of September 2007, a VCD release for rental from an Indonesian retailer and a Russian VHS release have been identified, but are not available.
He also had a minor role in Lethal Weapon 4, an installment in the popular American franchise starring Mel Gibson. He featured alongside popular Asian actor Jet Li.
Conan's latest film to date is "Lady Samurai", starring Gary Busey and Tommy Lister. The film was completed in 2007.
As of September 2007, no further film projects have been announced, although Conan has on-going business interest in the health food industry.
Unlike most Asian film actors, Conan never completed formal training in any martial arts styles. His favourite sport is Basketball.
