Introduction: The Departure of an Icon

The Hong Kong entertainment industry and its vast global fanbase are mourning the loss of the legendary actor Hui Siu Hung (Hứa Thiệu Hùng), who passed away on the morning of October 28th at the age of 77 after a battle with cancer. Known universally as the “Golden Face” of Hong Kong cinema and television, Hui Siu Hung was an indispensable fixture in nearly 200 film and TV productions, bringing depth, comedic timing, and unforgettable humanity to every role. His passing, confirmed by his family to St Headline, sent shockwaves across Asia, highlighting the profound impact of his enduring career, which spanned over five decades.

I. A Life’s Work Etched in Memory: The Pillars of a Career

Hui Siu Hung’s career trajectory is a masterclass in longevity and versatility. Having launched his acting journey at the age of 25, he transitioned seamlessly between the dramatic intensity of wuxia epics and the subtle humor of modern dramas. His face and unique acting style became deeply imprinted on the collective consciousness of viewers across generations.

The Television Legend

In the realm of television, Hui Siu Hung was a constant and comforting presence. His participation in countless classic series made him a foundational figure of TVB’s Golden Age. Among the most memorable roles that cemented his legacy are:

“The Legendary Eight Immortals” (Thiên Long Bát Bộ) (1982): A formative performance in a classic wuxia series.
“The Legend of the Condor Heroes” (Anh hùng xạ điêu) (1983): Continuing his presence in the iconic adaptations of Louis Cha’s novels.
“The Deer and the Cauldron” (Lộc Đỉnh Ký) (1984) and “The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber” (Ỷ Thiên Đồ Long Ký) (1986): Solidifying his reputation in historical dramas.
Modern Classics: His later work, including major roles in dramas like Life for Life, The Family Squad, Where the Legend Begins, Triumph in the Skies, and the critically acclaimed crime series Line Walker (Sứ đồ hành giả), introduced him to new audiences and showcased his range beyond the historical genre.

The Cinematic Presence

On the big screen, Hui Siu Hung’s contributions were equally significant. Critics lauded his performances in films like “Running Out of Time” (Ám chiến), “The Tricky Master” (Bá chủ bịp thành), and “My Name Is Nobody.” Whether playing a hapless police officer, a loyal sidekick, or a comical villain, his performances were always nuanced and memorable. His dedication was clearly visible even in his final years, with his most recent work, “Fatal Judge” (Tuyệt mệnh pháp quan), premiering in the year of his death, proving his unwavering commitment to his craft.

Hui Siu Hung often articulated that acting was his very life force—the driving motivation that kept him active and engaged. His steadfast refusal to retire, stating that acting fueled his will to live, is a testament to the passionate professionalism that defined his 50-year career.

II. A Sudden Turn: Shock and Tributes from the Industry

The sudden deterioration of Hui Siu Hung’s health sent ripples of shock and sadness through the tight-knit Hong Kong film community. Despite his age, the actor had maintained a normal working schedule and was seen publicly as recently as a Mid-Autumn Festival gathering. His final days included filming videos alongside his daughter, making the rapid decline of his health unexpected for friends and family.

In a poignant display of respect and camaraderie, over twenty renowned actors and actresses flocked to the hospital on October 27th to pay their final respects. This gathering was a powerful illustration of the deep affection the industry held for him. Among the notable visitors were long-time friends and contemporaries such as Chow Yun-Fat, Michael Miu and his wife Jaime Chik, Bobby Au-Yeung, Lai Chi San, Bosco Wong, and Ron Ng.

Perhaps the most touching gesture came from actress Charmaine Sheh, a frequent co-star, who canceled a scheduled promotional trip to Beijing to ensure she could visit Hui Siu Hung in the hospital. This act speaks volumes about the warmth and regard he inspired in his colleagues.

III. Billions of Views: The Public’s Emotional Farewell

The news of his passing immediately became a global trending topic, attracting billions of views and hundreds of thousands of comments on platforms like Weibo. The outpouring of grief was immense, reflecting his status as a beloved public figure.

Fans expressed deep gratitude for the joy and laughter he brought into their lives through his performances. Beyond entertainment, countless individuals cited Hui Siu Hung as an ethical role model, praising his dedication, humility, and the serious professionalism he applied to every single role, no matter how small.

His Enduring Philosophy

In his final filmed appearances, Hui Siu Hung shared a reflective philosophy on life and mortality that resonated deeply with the grieving public. His words offered comfort and wisdom, transforming his death into a moment of collective contemplation:

“Life is short. Be brave enough to eat what you like, meet the people you want to see, witness the scenery you enjoy, and do the things you wish to do.”
“A day will come when you let go of everything, realizing that health is your true foundation.”
“One hundred years from now, dust returns to dust. We labor a lifetime, yet we cannot take even a single tile or brick with us.”

These quotes serve as a poignant final lesson, cementing his legacy not just as a brilliant performer but as a sage figure who achieved contentment and wisdom through a life well-lived.

IV. A Harmonious Private Life

Hui Siu Hung’s personal life was characterized by a quiet harmony, a contrast to the dramatic roles he often played. He married his wife, Long Yan Ni, in 1992, and the couple welcomed their daughter, now 28, later in life. Notably, according to HK01, Hui Siu Hung treated his wife’s daughter from a previous marriage as his own, fostering a deep bond that led the stepdaughter to voluntarily call him “Father.” This blended family unit was consistently described as warm, loving, and harmonious, offering a stable and joyful foundation for the “Golden Face” throughout his celebrated career.

Hui Siu Hung’s passing marks a significant loss for the global entertainment landscape, but the sheer volume of his work ensures that his distinctive face, his characteristic voice, and his invaluable contribution to the arts will continue to bring joy and inspiration for generations to come.