Julia Nickson, the Singapore-born actress who captivated audiences as the courageous Co Bao in Rambo: First Blood Part II, recently made headlines with a rare public appearance following her retirement in March 2025. Known for breaking barriers in Hollywood during the 1980s and 1990s, Nickson’s career is a testament to her exceptional talent and determination.
A Breakout Role That Defined Her Career
Nickson’s Hollywood debut came with her role as Co Bao, a Vietnamese intelligence agent who aids Sylvester Stallone’s Rambo and is credited with inspiring the iconic red headband—a symbol forever tied to the legendary five-film franchise. This unforgettable performance marked the beginning of her illustrious career in the entertainment industry.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Born in Singapore and raised in a culture where women typically didn’t pursue careers, Nickson defied societal expectations. At just 17 years old, she moved to the United States to attend the University of Hawaiʻi, where she discovered her passion for acting. Her talent soon garnered attention with guest roles, including a part in Magnum P.I.
In the late 1980s, she achieved critical acclaim for her portrayal of Princess Aouda in the television miniseries Around the World in 80 Days, opposite Pierce Brosnan. Nickson continued to build her resume with appearances in films such as China Cry (1990), Sidekicks (1992), and White Tiger (1996).
A Glimpse Into Her Personal Life
Nickson’s personal life also captured public interest. In 1987, she married David Soul, the Starsky & Hutch heartthrob, after meeting him on the set of Harry’s Hong Kong. The couple had one daughter, China Soul, who followed in her mother’s creative footsteps as a singer-songwriter. However, their marriage ended in 1993, strained by Soul’s battle with alcohol addiction.
Reflecting on an Extraordinary Journey
In March 2025, Julia Nickson surprised fans by announcing her retirement via Instagram. She expressed gratitude for her 40-year career, writing, “Working over 40 years in the US has been an extraordinary journey with many ups and downs. Feeling extraordinarily grateful for so many talented actors I have had the opportunity to be with on the screen.”
Since stepping away from Hollywood, Nickson has lived a quieter life. A recent sighting in Los Angeles, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Rambo: First Blood Part II, showed the 66-year-old actress looking as poised as ever in an all-black ensemble while running errands. Despite retiring, Julia Nickson’s legacy continues to shine—both on and off the screen—as a pioneer for Asian actresses in Hollywood.